The Lymphatic System

Roles of the Lymphatic System

1) One-way drainage system

2) Lipid Absorption from Small Intestine

3) Produce & circulates Immune cells.

• Valves in lymphatic vessels prevent backflow of lymph.

Lymphoid Tissues:Un-encapsulated lymphatic tissues

Tonsils1) Pharyngeal

2) Palantine

3) Lingual

Tonsil located in strategic locations

Lymphoid Tissues

Lymphoid Organs:Surrounded by fibrous capsule (encapsulated)

Lymph Nodes

Thymus

Spleen

Structure of a Lymph Node

Derivation and Distribution of Lymphocytes

The Thymus

The Thymus

• Behind the sternum (in anterior mediastinum)

• Where T cells Differentiate

• Involution (gets smaller) post puberty

The Spleen

The Spleen

• Largest mass of lymphoid tissue in body

• Same functions for whole blood as lymph nodes for lymph