The Lymphatic System and Immunity

On April 4, 2015, I began work again starting at 10:00 AM.

Today I learned that the function of the lymphatic system is to identify foreign invaders and remove them before they cause harm, as pictured by the lymphocytes above. This system also transports absorbed fat from the digestive system to the body cells. There are two types of immunity. Specific immunity occurs when specialized T and B cells recognize antigens within the body. Nonspecific immunity occurs when the body uses general methods to protect itself against harmful agents, such as inducing a fever. Organs of the lympatic system include the following:

Tonsils and adenoids - trap pathogens that enter through the mouth and nose by monitoring their external environment. Fun fact: I got these removed via surgery in kindergarten!

Thymus - a lobular structure containing many immature, inactive lymphocytes. These leave the thymus to attack infected cells in lymphatic tissues throughout the body once matured.

Spleen - houses lymphocutes and the resident phagocytes remove cell debris from the blood.

Lymph nodes - house lymphocytes and macrophages.

Lymph vessels - transport lymph fluid throughout the system.

Red bone marrow - generates blood cells and cells used in immunity, including lymphocytes, neutrophils, and macrophages.

I paused at 10:30 AM for breakfast. I had bacon and eggs; I remember because I got the bacon grease all over my notes.

#anatomy #physiology #seniorproject #capacitybuilding #immunity