Lymphatic and respiratory Exam 1 well
Explained Answers 2025
Why does a problem with the lymphatic system potentially lead to a problem with
the immune system? (3 Pts)
the lymphatic and immune system play a role in immunity. when the lymphatic system
has a problem like a blockage or damage in the lymph vessels, it impairs circulation of
lymphocytes and other immune cells, hindering their ability to reach and respond to
infections or other threats. it weakens the immune systems ability to fight against illness
and foreign objects.
Describe the structural and functional relationship of the vessels of the blood
vascular system and the lymphatic system. (3 Pts.)
the relationship between vessels of the blood vascular systemic and the lymphatic
system is that the blood vascular system is responsible for circulation of blood to
transport oxygen, nutrients, and waste while the lymphatic system helps to maintain
body balance absorb fats, and support immune function.
structurally lymphatic vessels are similar to veins in structure but have thinner walls and
more valves. they carry the lymph to lymph nodes where it is then filtered like the blood
vascular system does
What is the consequence of obstruction of the lymphatics? (2 Pts.)
the consequence of obstruction of the lymphatics can lead to swelling because of a
lymph fluid buildup in the affected area, an impaired immune function and not being
able to transport immune cells or remove waste products, and can cause conditions like
lymphedema, or chronic inflammation
How does the number of afferent vs. efferent lymphatic vessels differ in a lymph
node and how does the difference allow lymphocytes and macrophages to
perform their protective function (2 pts)?
lymph nodes have more afferent vessels to bring lymph into the node from a wide area,
and fewer efferent vessels to allow lymph to leave. this difference helps slow the flow of
lymph through the node, which enhances filtration and exposure to lymphocytes and
macrophages. this structure enables efficient detection of pathogens and initiate
immune responses, and identify possible threats.
Why do lymph nodes get swollen when you are sick? (2 Pts.)
the reason lymph nodes get swollen when you are sick is because the lymph nodes act
as a filter that traps pathogens that have entered lymphatic circulation. when large
numbers of pathogens become trapped in a lymph node, they can trigger a response to
cause the lymph node to enlarge or swell
What are the cellular populations of lymphoid tissue and what purpose do they
serve? (6 Pts.)
macrophages- mature monocytes that are very active phagocytes
b and t lymphocytes- agranulocytes with diverse immune functions, like antibody
production, and immune defense
dendritic cells- immune cells with spiny processes resembling dendrites of neurons, and
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are a link between innate and adaptive immune systems
reticular cells- abundant in organs like the spleen and lymph nodes, and produce
reticular fibers composed of specalized collagen fibers and help immune support and
regulation.
Name and describe the functions of the other lymphoid organs of the body (other
then lymph nodes). (4 Pts.)
thymus- the site of development and maturation of T lymphocyes. generates a
population of functional T cells capable of protecting the body from pathogens
spleen- helps filter blood, and remove old or damaged red blood cells. is a reservoir for
immune cells like B and T lymphocytes, macrophages and dedritic cells. it contains
white pulp and filters pathogens from blood
mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)- helps protect mucosal surfaces from
pathogens and initiates immune responses directly at the site of antigen entry into the
body, and produces local immune responses
bone marrow- the primary lymphoid organ responsible for the production of red blood
cells, and lymphocytes. B cells mature in bone marrow while T cell precursors are
generated here before migrating to the thymus for maturation
When you cut your finger, which line of defense is compromised? Why do we
cover a wound with a bandage? (2 Pts.)
when you cut your finger, you have compromised your first line of defense known as
innate immunity, which includes surface barriers like cutaneous membrane. the reason
we cover the wound with a bandage is because it temporarily takes the place of the
breached surface barrier and acts to help prevent the entry of pathogens into the body
What are the signs of inflammation? What are several inflammatory chemicals
and what roles do they serve? How does inflammation serve as a protective
function (beneficial effects)? (6 Pts.)?
the signs of inflammation include redness, heat, swelling and pain. several inflammatory
chemicals include:
histamines- help induce vasodilation which relax and smooth the muscle supplying
damages tissues, and increases permability to local capillaries
prostaglandins- trigger action potentials in peripheral processes of sensory neurons,
letting us know were in pain
inflammation serves as a protective function because it helps prevent the spread of
damage and disposes of debris and pathogens, while alerting the adaptive immune
system and sets up repair
What often causes “flu-like” symptoms when one is infected with a pathogen? (2
Pts.)
many cytokines, and innterferons to a lesser extent induce a
"flu like" symptom, which includes fever chills and aches due in part to stimulation of
inflammation
What causes a fever? (2 Pts.)
a fever is caused by an initiation of chemicals called pyrogens, which are released from
damaged cells or certain kinds of bacteria. pyrogens act on the hypothalamus causing
the hypothalamic thermostat to reset to a higher range
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