Human Anatomy and Physiology : Help with Other Lymphatic Physiology

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Human Anatomy and Physiology

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Example Questions

Example Question #3 : Lymphatic Physiology

Which of the following is NOT a mechanism used by the lymphatic system to control the flow of lymph?

Possible Answers:

Respiration

Skeletal muscle contractions

Osmosis

Contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle cells around lymphatics

Correct answer:

Osmosis

Explanation:

Lymph flow is controlled by the contraction of skeletal muscle, smooth muscle cells around lymphatics, respiration, and gravity.

Osmosis is used to transport fluids into the lymph, but cannot be used to control lymphatic flow.

Example Question #2 : Lymphatic Physiology

Which nodes listed below drain into the thoracic duct?

Possible Answers:

Intercostal nodes

Sternal nodes

Axillary nodes

Phrenic nodes

Correct answer:

Intercostal nodes

Explanation:

There are three main groups of lymph nodes that provide lymphatic drainage in the thoracic area. There are the sternal nodes, intercostal nodes, and phrenic nodes.

The sternal nodes, also known as the parasternal nodes, drain the areas of the medial part of the breast, the intercostal areas, the diaphragm, and the area above found above the umbilicus. They drain into the meeting point of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. The intercostal nodes also drain the area of the intercostal spaces and the pleura, emptying into the thoracic duct. The phrenic nodes collect lymphatic fluid from the pericardium, liver, and diaphragm. They empty into the posterior mediastinal lymph nodes. The axillary nodes drain into the apical nodes, which then empty into the subclavian vein.

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