Cancer cells block a patient's lymphatic drainage and protein-rich fluid builds up in the tissue spaces. What is this accumulation called?
AAnaphylaxis
BInflammation
CSeroconversion
DLymphedema
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. Lymphedema
1. The lymphatic system exists to drain the excess fluid that capillary filtration leaves behind in the tissues.
2. When it is blocked by cancer cells or destroyed by injury, protein-rich interstitial fluid backs up in the tissue spaces.
3. That inappropriate accumulation of fluid is called lymphedema and may lead to serious medical consequences.
4. Inflammation also swells a tissue, but it is driven by mediators such as histamine rather than by a blocked drainage route.
_Source: OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology (CC BY 4.0), Ch 21 "The Lymphatic and Immune System", section 21.1 Anatomy of the Lymphatic and Immune Systems_
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