Lymphatic System Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards

Lymph moves through vessels primarily because of which mechanism?

Answer: Intrinsic smooth muscle contractions of lymphangions and external compression

Lymphangions (segments between valves) have smooth muscle that contracts rhythmically, and external forces like breathing and muscle activity assist flow.

What is the estimated normal lymph transport capacity of the lymphatic system per day?

Answer: 2–4 liters

Under normal conditions the lymphatic system transports approximately 2–4 liters of lymph back to the bloodstream each day.

The term 'lymphotome' refers to what concept in lymphatic therapy?

Answer: A skin territory drained by a specific group of regional lymph nodes

A lymphotome (also called a lymphatic territory or skin zone) is the area of skin whose lymph drains to a particular node group.

The watershed (or 'dividing line') between anterior trunk lymphotomes runs approximately where?

Answer: At the umbilicus horizontally and mid-axillary line vertically

The trunk is divided into lymphotomes by a horizontal watershed at the umbilicus and a vertical watershed along the mid-axillary line.

Which protein is predominantly found in lymph and cannot re-enter blood capillaries due to its size?

Answer: Albumin

Albumin is the most abundant plasma protein that leaks into interstitial spaces and must return via lymphatics because it is too large to re-enter blood capillaries.

What is the name of the cistern at the base of the thoracic duct where it originates?

Answer: Chyle cistern (cisterna chyli)

The cisterna chyli is a dilated sac in the abdomen that collects lymph from the lower limbs and intestines before it ascends through the thoracic duct.