Flow of lymph through a lymph node is slowed due to ________.
A) the presence of lymphocytes and macrophages
B) fewer efferent vessels draining it compared to many afferent vessels feeding it
C) the viscous nature of lymph
D) mini-valves

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lymph nodes receive lymph via numerous afferent vessels and the flow of lymph through the node is slowed down as it has fewer efferent vessels to drain it. This allows lymphocytes and macrophages present in the lymph node to screen and filter the lymph, removing any foreign particles, pathogens and cancer cells. The viscous nature of lymph and mini-valves may play a role in maintaining unidirectional flow, but they do not slow down the flow of lymph through the node.

Flow of Lymph Through a Lymph Node Is Slowed Due