Lab Report: Exercise 6: The Lymphatic System
Purpose: What was the purpose of doing this exercise?
The purpose of this exercise is to learn about the lymphatic system and how it works and helps the human body. Why we need it and the components associated with the lymphatic system.
Activity 1: Microscopic Anatomy of Lymphatic Structures
Observations:
Sketch of Reticular Connective Tissue Slide (Lymph Node). Describe the structures you observed on the slide
I can see white blood cells, reticular fibers which are very dark.
Sketch of Spleen Slide: Describe the structures you observed on the slide
I can see a capsule covered by a mesothelium ,collagen, elastic and a few reticular fibers and trabeculae
Sketch of Tonsil Slide: Describe the structures you observed on the slide
I can see lymphocytes, macrophages, stratified squamous epithelium and reticular fibers
Sketch of Thymus Slide: Describe the structures you observed on the slide
I can see lymphocytes, large macrophages, fat cells, medulla and a capsule.
Questions:
A. How are lymph, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes related?
They are related because; the lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs. It is made up mainly of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and lymph. Lymph vessels, which are different from blood vessels, carry fluid called lymph throughout your body. Lymph contains white blood cells that defend you against germs.
B. What are the two major functions of the lymph nodes?
The main function of lymph nodes is to act as a drainage system by absorbing and expelling proteins, dead cells, bacteria and other waste products from the body. Basically they clean and filter the lymph before it is returned to the blood. They are also a major part of the immune system, as they produce antibodies and lymphocytes. For example, if there is an infection present in the body, the lymph nodes produce