Lymphoid organs
Lymphoid Organs
Lymphoid organs (pronunciation: lim-foid or-gans) are part of the immune system and play a crucial role in the body's defense against diseases. They are responsible for the production, storage, and maturation of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infections.
Etymology
The term "lymphoid" is derived from the Latin word "lympha," which means "water," and the Greek suffix "-oid," meaning "like." This refers to the clear, watery fluid known as lymph that circulates through these organs.
Types of Lymphoid Organs
Lymphoid organs are classified into two main types: primary and secondary lymphoid organs.
- Primary Lymphoid Organs: These include the bone marrow and the thymus. They are responsible for the production and maturation of lymphocytes.
- Secondary Lymphoid Organs: These include the lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, Peyer's patches, and appendix. They are responsible for the activation of lymphocytes and the initiation of an immune response.
Related Terms
- Lymph: A clear, watery fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system, carrying cells that help fight infections and diseases.
- Lymphocytes: A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system and helps the body fight off infections.
- Immune System: The body's defense system against infections and diseases.
- Bone Marrow: A soft, spongy tissue found in the center of bones that produces blood cells, including lymphocytes.
- Thymus: A lymphoid organ located in the chest, where T cells mature.
- Lymph Nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease.
- Spleen: An organ that filters blood, stores blood cells, and destroys old cells.
- Tonsils: Lymphoid tissues located in the throat that help to prevent and fight infections.
- Peyer's Patches: Small masses of lymphatic tissue found in the small intestine that monitor intestinal bacteria populations and prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the intestines.
- Appendix: A small, tube-shaped organ attached to the large intestine. It is thought to be part of the immune system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lymphoid organs
- Wikipedia's article - Lymphoid organs
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