a. Afferent Lymphatic Vessels: These are vessels that carry lymph towards a lymph node.
b. Efferent Lymphatic Vessels: These are vessels that carry lymph away from a lymph node.
c. Macrophages within the lymph nodes function to phagocytize and remove foreign particles, debris, and pathogens from the lymph.
d. Spleen functions include filtering and purifying the blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells, storing platelets, and serving as a reservoir for blood.
The lymphatic system, comprising lymph nodes and the spleen, plays a crucial role in immune function and blood filtration. Afferent lymphatic vessels are responsible for carrying lymph toward lymph nodes, where immune responses are initiated. Efferent lymphatic vessels then carry the filtered lymph away from the lymph nodes to the rest of the body.
Within the lymph nodes, macrophages are vital components of the immune system. These specialized cells function as scavengers, engulfing and digesting foreign particles, pathogens, and cellular debris present in the lymph. This process helps prevent the spread of infections and ensures the removal of potentially harmful substances.
The spleen, another integral part of the lymphatic system, serves multiple functions. It acts as a blood filter, removing damaged or old red blood cells, as well as foreign particles and debris. Additionally, the spleen stores platelets and acts as a reservoir for blood, releasing stored components in response to the body's needs. Overall, the coordinated functions of afferent and efferent lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, macrophages, and the spleen contribute to the body's immune defense and blood maintenance.
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