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 presents with severe localized edema after cancer surgery. Which mechanism most likely explains this condition?

Accepted Answer

Obstruction or removal of lymphatic vessels preventing normal lymph return

Question 3

Which of the following statements about lymphatic capillaries is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

They are blind-ended vessels that can absorb larger molecules than blood capillaries.

Question 4

Lacteals are specialized lymphatic capillaries found in the intestinal mucosa. What is their primary function?

Accepted Answer

Absorb digested fat and deliver fatty lymph (chyle) to the blood

Question 5

Which lymphatic duct drains lymph from the right upper arm and right side of the head and thorax?

Accepted Answer

Right lymphatic duct

Question 6

A patient with cancer has swollen but painless lymph nodes. What is the most likely explanation?

Accepted Answer

The lymph nodes are secondary cancer sites due to metastasizing cancer cells.

Question 7

Which of the following is a primary lymphoid organ and what is its main function?

Accepted Answer

Thymus; site of T cell maturation

Question 8

Which cell type is responsible for producing antibodies in the lymphatic system?

Accepted Answer

Plasma cells derived from B cells

Question 9

What is the main structural difference between the thymus and other lymphoid organs?

Accepted Answer

The thymus stroma is made up of epithelial cells, not reticular fibers.

Question 10

Which of the following mechanisms does NOT contribute to lymph transport?

Accepted Answer

High-pressure arterial flow

Question 11

A student is asked to explain why lymph flow through a node is slow. Which answer best explains this phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Lymph nodes have more afferent than efferent vessels, causing stagnation.

Question 12

Which equation best represents the relationship between lymph flow ($$Q$$), pressure difference ($$\Delta P$$), and resistance ($$R) in $$the lymphatic system?

Accepted Answer

$$Q = \frac{\Delta P}{R}$$

Question 13

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the spleen's function?

Accepted Answer

It stores breakdown products of red blood cells for later reuse.

Question 14

Which region of the lymph node contains follicles with germinal centers rich in dividing B cells?

Accepted Answer

Cortex

Question 15

A child under 12 years old undergoes partial splenectomy. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

The spleen will regenerate if a small part is left.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue)?

Accepted Answer

It protects mucosal surfaces from pathogens trying to enter the body.

Question 17

Which of the following is NOT a major collection site of MALT?

Accepted Answer

Thymus

Question 18

Which cell type is most responsible for phagocytizing foreign substances and activating T cells in lymphoid tissues?

Accepted Answer

Macrophages

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the thymus does not directly fight antigens?

Accepted Answer

It contains a blood-thymus barrier that isolates immature T lymphocytes from antigens.

Question 20

A patient has a ruptured spleen after a car accident. Which organ(s) will take over most of the spleen's functions if it is removed?

Accepted Answer

Liver and bone marrow

The Lymphatic System and Lymphoid Organs: Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

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