Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the lymphatic system?

Accepted Answer

To return interstitial fluid and leaked plasma proteins back to the blood

Question 2

A patient has a tumor blocking the right lymphatic duct. Which area of the body is most likely to experience localized edema as a result?

Accepted Answer

Right upper arm

Question 3

Which structural feature of lymphatic capillaries allows them to absorb larger molecules such as proteins and pathogens that blood capillaries cannot?

Accepted Answer

Overlapping endothelial cells forming one-way minivalves

Question 4

During vigorous exercise, lymph flow increases. Which mechanism is primarily responsible for this increase?

Accepted Answer

Milking action of skeletal muscles

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a function of the spleen?

Accepted Answer

Production of T cells in adults

Question 6

A patient presents with swollen, tender lymph nodes following a bacterial infection. What is the most likely explanation for this finding?

Accepted Answer

Lymph nodes are overwhelmed by the pathogens they are trying to destroy

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why lymphatic vessels are considered a one-way system?

Accepted Answer

They contain valves that prevent backflow, ensuring lymph flows only toward the heart

Question 8

Which lymphoid organ is responsible for the maturation of T lymphocytes and is most active during childhood?

Accepted Answer

Thymus

Question 9

A patient has had their spleen removed (splenectomy) due to trauma. Which organs will primarily take over the spleen's functions?

Accepted Answer

Liver and bone marrow

Question 10

Which of the following statements about lymphoid follicles is correct?

Accepted Answer

They contain germinal centers of proliferating B cells

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the function of the lacteals in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They absorb digested fats and deliver chyle to the blood

Question 12

Which of the following is a key difference between the thymus and other lymphoid organs?

Accepted Answer

The thymus does not directly fight antigens and lacks follicles

Question 13

A blockage in the thoracic duct would most likely result in which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Edema in the left leg and left side of the body

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why lymph nodes have fewer efferent than afferent vessels?

Accepted Answer

To allow lymphocytes and macrophages more time to function

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue)?

Accepted Answer

Protection from pathogens trying to enter the body through mucous membranes

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of dendritic cells in lymphoid tissue?

Accepted Answer

They capture antigens and deliver them to lymph nodes, helping activate T cells

Question 17

A patient with a congenital absence of lymphatic capillaries in the intestinal mucosa would most likely have difficulty with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Absorbing dietary fats

Question 18

Which of the following equations best represents the volume of interstitial fluid returned to the blood by the lymphatic system per day?

Accepted Answer

$V_{lymph} = 3\ \mathrm{L/day}$

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct pairing of lymphatic trunk and the region it drains?

Accepted Answer

Bronchomediastinal trunk – thoracic organs

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why cancer-infiltrated lymph nodes are usually not painful, while infected lymph nodes are tender and swollen?

Accepted Answer

Cancerous nodes lack the inflammatory response that causes pain

Ch.20 The Lymphatic System and Lymphoid Organs: Structure and Function

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