Lets recap the lymphatic system functions: In clinical world the process of cancer spreading is called metastasis. Reviewer: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and organs that regulates the amount of fluid in the human body and defends it against infections. The lymphatic system has several crucial functions for maintaining body homeostasis which include: maintaining the body's fluid balance, transportation of large molecules and immune surveillance. The endothelial cells that make up the wall of a lymphatic capillary lack a basement membrane, loosely attach to each other and slightly overlap. The new era of the lymphatic system: no longer secondary to the blood vascular system. The lymphatic system is composed of three types of lymphoid organs which are as follows: 1. The most common examples are breast cancer and melanoma. The key primary lymphoid organs of the immune system are the thymus and bone marrow, and secondary lymphatic tissues such as spleen, tonsils, lymph vessels, lymph nodes, adenoids, and skin and liver. Now there is convincing evidence that the lymphatics do exist in some parts of the central nervous system. This system has three main functions: To collect and recycle the excess interstitial fluid and its dissolved substances To absorb fats and other substances from the digestive tract (this topic will be discussed in the Digestive System Unit) There, they meet the antigens for the first time and undergo final maturation process called the antigen-dependent activation. Fixed cells found in lymph nodes, the spleen, the thymus, the tonsils, and aggregated lymph nodules are phagocytic and extract substances foreign to the body from percolating tissue fluid. Nutrition 101 Curriculum Resource & Lesson Plans, Arkansas Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Connecticut Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Delaware Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Hawaii Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Training, Idaho Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Michigan Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, New Mexico Prometric CNA Exam: Training & Practice Guide, New York Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Oklahoma Prometric CNA Test: Practice & Study Guide, Understanding & Treating Seizures for Health Professionals, Muscles of the Body for Health Professionals, Create an account to start this course today. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that help your immune system. Immune cells distinguish self from nonself through cell-surface receptors. Get unlimited access to over 84,000 lessons. The efferent vessels empty into the lymphatic trunks. The lymphatic system has 3 main functions: It maintains the balance of fluid between the blood and tissues, known as fluid homeostasis. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. An adult human has an average of 450 lymph nodes, most of which are located in the abdomen. Lymphatic Vessels Location, Function & Role | What are Lymphatic Vessels? There are three tonsils. When reading anatomy texts for hours, thoughts can easily fly to Narnia. It also maintains fluid balance and plays a role in absorbing fats and fat-soluble nutrients. Fluid Homeostasis Lymphatic vessels are low pressure vessels similar to veins and the same muscle pump and respiratory pump that promote venous return also facilitate lymph flow. This article details the lymphatic system, its role in the body, and what conditions can impair its function. Chapter 2 Part 1: Levels of Organization - Introduction, 15. I would definitely recommend Study.com to my colleagues. The thoracic duct returns filtered lymph into the bloodstream. This organ system carries excess fluid, proteins, fats, bacteria, and other substances away from the cells and spaces between cells. It was shown thatantibodies could begenerated against a variety of substances and the termantigenwas created to describe these substances. Lymphatic capillaries are found wherever blood capillaries are located except in the central nervous system and bone marrow. The lymphatic vessels pick up the cancer cells when they penetrate the basement membrane of the altered tissue and relocate in the underlying connective tissue. The lymphatic system serves as the bodys sewage system that filters blood and plays a role in immune responses. Infectioncan be viewed as the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms that are not normally present within the body. The lymphatic system (also called the lymphoid system) is part of the immune system. the palatine, the pharyngeal and the lingual. For a long time, it has been believed that the central nervous system doesn't contain lymph vessels. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 2(4), a006445. Introduction to the Integumentary System, 24. Cardiovascular Levels of Organization, 45. HIV infects a subset of T cells in the body, thus compromising the immune system. The lymphocytes of the adaptive immune response have receptors that are generated by random rearrangement of DNA segments. All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. Most people who have swollen glands with a cold or flu do not need to contact a doctor. The function of lymphatic tissue is drainage of excess tissue fluid and defense. Cellular Adaptation: Increases in Number or Size. Lymphocytes can detect, with great specificity, threats and proliferate rapidly to act against them in a targeted manner. These absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins to form a milky white fluid called chyle. Author: Lymph nodes also filter cellular waste, dead cells, and cancerous cells. As organisms evolved, so did the immune system. The lymphatic vessels ultimately deposit their lymph into collecting ducts that return the fluid to the circulatory system. Moore, K. L., & Dalley, A. F. (1999). macrophages, plasmocytes, dendrocytes). Lymph contains bacteria, viruses, cancer cells and other large particles that are normally too big to make it back into the venous capillaries. The circulatory and lymphatic systems interact to connect these organs and tissues. The lymphatic system is a collection of vessels, nodes, and ducts that span most of the body. Chapter 1: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, II. Learn more about cancer spreading to the lymph nodes here. Appointments & Access The spleen is rich in the blood supply via the splenic artery. The composition of lymph is described below: Lymph Plasma. The six lymphatic organs include the thymus, tonsils, bone marrow, Peyer's patches, and mucous membranes. The activated T helper cells can then interact with a variety of other cells, including another subset of T lymphocytes (cytotoxic T cells) and the B lymphocytes. Other Lymphatic Organs. Required fields are marked *. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Lymph vessels are like one-way roads, with the lymph being collected at the capillary beds and travels through the body into the thoracic cavity. Consolidate your knowledge about the lymphatic nodes with our study unit for this topic. The lymphatic vessels are absent in tissues and organs such as bone, cartilage, central nervous system, eyeball, skin's epidermis, and the inner ear. That amount of residual fluid in the tissues is calledthe interstitial fluid. Most of the fluid returns to the blood, but some of the fluid moves from the interstitial spaces into lymphatic capillaries to become lymph. Kim Bengochea, Regis University, Denver. In addition to teaching licenses in multiple disciplines they also hold certifications through Project Lead the Way for engineering and are AVID certified. Choi, I., Lee, S., & Hong, Y. K. (2012). However, it most commonly affects lymph nodes in the upper part of the body, such as the neck, chest, and under the arms. Annual review of fluid mechanics, 50, 459482. Finally, lymphedema is the swelling of one or more extremities due to blockage of the lymph nodes or vessels. Lymph is a clear fluid that comes from blood plasma, which exits blood vessels at capillary beds. An Overview of the Lymphatic Systems Function & Organs. ; Primary lymphoid organs include the thymus, bone marrow, and fetal liver and, in birds, a structure called the bursa of Fabricius. You should inform your doctor if these symptoms are interfering with your daily activities. Bone marrow stem cells play an important role in immunity as they generate lymphocytes. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. They include protecting your body from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats and removing cellular waste. I. The lymphatic system begins with the lymphatic capillary meshwork that collects the excessive fluid from the tissues. Bacteria, viruses and cancer cells found in the lymph are met by macrophages within your lymph nodes. MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The lymphatic system is a group of tissues and organs that work to maintain fluid balances in the body, absorb cellular wastes and digestive fats, and assist the immune system. Lymphedema may also be associated with parasitic infections in which parasites obstruct lymph vessels. The secondary lymphoid organs are the spleen, tonsils, vermiform appendix, lymph nodes, and specialized lymphoid tissue of the mucosae (MALT). When pressure is greater inside the lymphatic capillary, the endothelial cells prevent lymph from passing back into the interstitial spaces by acting like a one-way swinging door. There are no lymph arteries. Peyer's patches are found deep in a part of your digestive tract known as your small intestine. Innate immunity is the natural resistance with which a person is born and is the result of actions of both external and internal systems. They are organized in networks called lymphatic plexuses. The lymphatic system consists of lymph vessels, ducts, nodes, and other tissues throughout the body. The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. Unfortunately, like all other aspects of the body, the lymphatic system is susceptible to disease and dysfunction. Integumentary Structures and Functions, 39. The lymph system also has a major role in immune surveillance and fighting pathogens found in the body. Interstitial fluid enters the lymphatic vessel when the pressure is greater in the interstitial fluid than in lymph and nothing in the interstitial fluid is excluded from entering the lymphatic capillaries. Lymph is the interstitial fluid. Also Read: Skeletal system Introduction & functions of the skeletal system, Skeletal system Introduction & functions of skeletal system. They have a Master's in the Art of Teaching with a focus in inclusive and equitable STEM education from Goucher College and a Bachelor's in Biology from University of Maryland Baltimore County with minors in Psychology and Emergency Health Services. They produce and store more white blood cells and are connected by the lymphatic vessels. They all serve functions to assist in maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats and cellular waste, and assisting the immune system. Your spleen is tucked up under your rib cage on the left side of your body, near the outer curve of your stomach. Lymph Tissue and Lymphatic VesselsLike the circulatory system that carries blood throughout the body, the lymphatic system is made of a series of vessels, capillaries, and organs. Dimitrios Mytilinaios MD, PhD The three functions of the immune system include maintaining the levels of body fluids, assisting the immune system, and absorbing cellular waste and digestive fats. The lymph nodes are secondary lymphoid organs distributed throughout the whole body, grouped according to the body regions they are in (e.g. While the lymphatic tissue can be a primary site for cancer (e.g. There is also one unpaired intestinal lymph trunk, that drains lymph from the majority of organs of the gastrointestinal tract. What are its organs and functions? Tonsils house lymphocytes and other white blood cells called macrophages. When their maturation process in the primary organs ends, the lymphocytes relocate into the specific areas of these secondary lymphoid organs. Terms of Use. Common sweetener erythritol tied to higher risk of stroke and heart attack, Gout: How metabolic syndrome may increase the risk, A new therapeutic target for the prevention of heart failure due to aortic stenosis, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system, toxic barriers, such as the acidic contents of the stomach, a swollen lymph node feels hard or fixed in place, swelling accompanies a fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, a condition known as lymphatic filariasis. Human Anatomy and Physiology : The Lymphatic System; Ziser Lecture Notes, 2005 3 also called lymph glands oval, vary in size from pinhead to lima bean most numerous of the lymphatic organs (100's) Functions of lymph nodes: 1. cleanse lymph as lymph flows through sinuses of node it slows down and microorganisms and foreign matter are removed 2. The 5 main functions of the lymphatic system include: The lymphatic system has many parts, which include: Organs associated with the lymphatic system include: Caring for the lymphatic system doesnt require much effort. On the other hand, if the tumor has affected the lymph nodes far away from the initial tumor, it may indicate that the tumor is in its later stage. You have thousands of lymph nodes, and they do a good job of destroying foreign invaders, but they are not the only lymphatic tissue that is working for you. These EDITABLE stations ask students to evaluate different aspects of immune response and lymphatic system functions and structures. The lymphatic system is the system of vessels, cells, and organs that carries excess fluids to the bloodstream and filters pathogens from the blood. In relative terms, the study of immunity is a new science that started with Edward Jenners discovery in 1796, that individuals exposed to cowpox were often resistant to human smallpox. The lymphatic system serves three key functions in supporting and protecting the human body: The lymphatic system plays a key role in fluid balance within the human body. The lymphatic system is similar to the circulation system in that it moves fluid throughout the body with the assistance of vessels. Chapter 9: The Lymphatic System and Immunity, 53. Immunity (resistance) has an innate componentand anadaptive component. B cells fully develop in the bone marrow. Adaptive immunity is based on lymphocytes with receptors that can potentially recognize any foreign antigen. Lymphatic system (anterior view) -Begoa Rodriguez, Lymphatic vessels (diagram) -Begoa Rodriguez. This fluid becomes the interstitial fluid that surrounds cells. Scientists discovered a substance in the serum of vaccinated individuals, which they termed antibodies, that could bind to the pathogen that was used in the vaccination. How do you care for your lymphatic system? The lymphatic system plays a key role in intestinal function. Lymphatic capillaries come together to form larger lymphatic vessels. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). (n.d.). Create your account. Some cytotoxic T cells become directly involved in attacks against the infection, while the B lymphocytes produce antigen-specific antibodies. As it travels through your lymphatic vessels, it gets channeled into lymph nodes, which are small cleanup stations positioned along the path of your lymphatic vessels. An error occurred trying to load this video. Lymphatic capillaries are the smallest lymphatic vessels that collect the interstitial fluid from the tissues. Sometimes, however, the innate immune components cannot quickly eliminate the infectious agents especially viral infections. Fluids are forced out of the arterial capillary beds and into the surrounding body tissues. Lymphatic vessels transport lymph to lymph nodes. Lymphatic vessels that carry lymph towards the lymph node are known as afferent, whereas the vessels that carry lymph away from the lymph node are called efferent lymphatic vessels. There are other lymphatic organs that provide additional levels of protection, including your spleen, thymus gland, tonsils and Peyer's patches. While your lymph nodes filter lymph, your spleen filters blood to remove bacteria, viruses and other foreign materials. Lymph also serves an immune function by circulating white blood cells and collecting damaged cells, cancer cells, and anything it identifies as a foreign invader like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Description: A gland-like organ that turns into fatty tissue as the child ages into adulthood. Blockages, diseases or infections can affect your lymphatic system's function. These are highly specific and long lasting responses to particular pathogens. doi:10.1146/annurev-fluid-122316-045259. Function The lymph system has three main. Some organs provide the environment for the development and maturation of leukocytes. Check out our learning materials about the spleen and test your knowledge with our integrated quizzes. This fluid becomes the interstitial fluid that surrounds cells. their function is to pick up excess tissue fluid, called lymph and return it to the bloodstream. Returns excess interstitial fluid to Cardiovascular System Provides defense against infectious diseases and cancer Harbors leukocytes Absorbs dietary lipids from digestive tract Lymph nodes perform three functions: They filter the lymph, preventing the spread of microorganisms and toxins that enter interstitial fluids. The lymphatic system comprises lymph plasma, lymph corpuscles and lymphoid organs. After feeding the hungry cells on the periphery, the majority of fluid gets reabsorbed back into the blood vessels, while around 10% of the fluid stays in the tissue. Introduction to the lymphatic system. ; In humans the thymus and bone marrow are the key . In the former, the lymph nodes react when coming into contact with foreign materials from infected tissue. The phagocytes in the tissue carry out an array of activities at the inflamed site, the main one being to rid the area of microorganisms and damaged tissue and thus to set the stage for healing. The lymphatic vessels are divided into two large groups; superficial and deep lymphatic vessels. The duct opens in the cisterna chyli which is the dilated origin of the thoracic duct. Sometimes the tonsils do such a good job of removing infections that they get infected themselves. a). These systems may be viewed both as an armory (chemical substances), with it tools and weapons, and as an army (cells) capable of using these tools and weapons in defense of the host. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Medical Anatomy Notes | Human Anatomy Notes. Their main role is to establish a specific immune response to foreign particles (antigens). The spleen also contains efferent lymphatic vessels, which transport lymph away from the spleen and toward lymph nodes. That's a good reminder that lymphocytes are cells that are important to the lymphatic system. Your spleen filters blood to remove bacteria, viruses and other foreign materials, and also makes lymphocytes. microorganism), they will start the immune response to prevent the harming particle from disseminating throughout the body. Swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of illness. In case the immunocytes detect a foreign particle in the lymph (e.g. Reproductive Structures and Functions. It is important to realize that although immunity will be considered here in the context of human anatomy and physiology, it is not restricted to humans or animals. The lymph nodes house lymphocytes and other immune cells(e.g. Read more. Your tonsils are clumps of lymphatic tissue that trap bacteria and viruses that enter your throat. The tonsils, spleen, and thymus glands are also lymphatic tissues. The functions of the lymphatic system are: Serve as a channel for the lymph and thus regulate the pressure of the interstitial fluid (osmotic pressure). All rights reserved. Made up of a network of tissues, vessels and organs, the lymphatic system helps your body identify abnormal cells and pathogens that can cause illness or cancer. These white blood cells are often referred to as lymphocytes. To transport fluids back to blood and act as the bodies defense and resistance to disease. What percentage of the human body is water? 475 lessons. About 90% of the plasma returns to the venous circulatory system; however, the remaining 10% is collected by the lymphatic system. Skeletal System Function & Organs | What is the Skeletal System? Can diet help improve depression symptoms? The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph It plays an important role in your immunity, blood pressure regulation, digestion, and other functions. The organs of the lymphatic system are the tonsils, spleen, thymus gland, vermiform appendix and Peyer's patches. According to their histology and functional characteristics, the lymphocytes are divided into three major groups; B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and ducts that collect and circulate excess fluid in the body. Unlike blood vessels that circulate blood in a continuous, closed-loop system, lymphatics carry fluid in one direction. The lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels and organs that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into your circulatory system (your bloodstream). What? The deep lymphatic vessels carry lymph from internal organs. Fluid collected in the lymph system is returned to the heart via veins in the chest. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not flow through a closed, circular system. Tonsils are arrays of lymphatic tissue located in the upper throat region. Register now This fluid is directed toward lymph nodes to be filtered and ultimately re-enters blood circulation through veins located near the heart. The larger vessels contain valves to prevent backflow and pump towards the heart to return lymph fluid to the bloodstream by the subclavian veins. - Structures, Function & Vocabulary, Large Defensive Systems of the Body: Vocabulary, The Immune System at the Cellular Level: Terminology, Medical Terms for Major Pathology & Diagnostics of the Immune System, Medical Terms for Treatments Related to the Immune System, Medical Terminology for the Skeletal System, Vocabulary for the Muscular System & Its Functions, Terminology for the Respiratory System, Diseases & Treatments, Terminology for Diagnosis & Treatment of Respiratory Diseases, Medical Vocabulary for the Gastrointestinal System, GI Tract Diagnosis & Treatment Terminology, Terms for Nervous System-Related Conditions, Terminology for Diagnostics & Treatments of the Nervous System, Terminology for The Endocrine System & Hormones, Male Reproductive System & STDs: Medical Terminology, Female Reproductive System: Medical Terminology, Medical Terminology Used for Diagnosis & Pharmacology, Religious & Spiritual Influences on Health, Diagnostics, Testing & Procedures for Nursing, CSET Health Science Subtest III (180) Prep, Ohio State Test - Physical Science: Practice & Study Guide, MTLE Middle Level Science: Practice & Study Guide, MTLE Life Science: Practice & Study Guide, PSSA - Science Grade 8: Test Prep & Practice, OSAT Chemistry (CEOE) (004): Practice & Study Guide, Virginia SOL - Chemistry: Test Prep & Practice, Absorption of Nutrients to the Lymphatic System, Nursing Assessment of the Cardiovascular System, The Lymphatic System: Definition and Fundamental Components, Lymphatic System: Key Structures & Vessels, The Lymphatic System, Immunity & Disease Visual Worksheet, Mountain Gorilla Food Web: Diet, Prey & Predators, Koko the Gorilla: Biography, Sign Language & Art, Bornean Orangutan: Habitat, Adaptations, Diet & Facts, Ring-Tailed Lemurs: Diet, Communication & Predators, Working Scholars Bringing Tuition-Free College to the Community, a network of vessels, tissues and organs that help fight infection, pick up and transport leaked fluids and return them to your bloodstream, the fluids that remain in the tissue spaces are picked up by your lymphatic vessels, small cleanup stations positioned along the path of your lymphatic vessels, a type of white blood cell that helps your immune system, filters blood to remove bacteria, viruses and other foreign materials, produces a hormone called thymosin, which is needed for the production and maturation of T cells, clumps of lymphatic tissue that trap bacteria and viruses that enter your throat, contain cells that trap and destroy bacteria that enter your intestines. After maturation, the lymphocytes are distributed mainly in the secondary lymphoid organs. Thymus Histology, Function & Location | What is the Thymus Gland? Lymphoid organs are distinct structures consisting of multiple tissue types. II. Avoid unnecessary exposure to cleaning products and pesticides because their harmful chemicals can get lodged in the system, making it harder for them to filter. Immune System Overview & Major Organs | What is the Main Function of the Immune System? It consists of less calcium, few blood proteins, less phosphorus, and high glucose concentration. Lymphatic system is the network of vessels through which lymph drains from the tissues into the blood. A bridge between the innate and the adaptive components is theinflammatory response. Lymph enters a node through afferent lymphatic vessels, filters as it passes through channels in the node called sinuses, and leaves the node through an efferent lymphatic vessel. c. an antigen is any substance that the immune system recognizes as self. spleen, thymus gland, tonsils, Peyer's . Students investigate different disorders linked to immune cells and organs, while analyzing graphs, pictures or infographics to extract important information. Location of the Subclavian Vein. Primary lymphoid Organs 2. Bone marrow is the soft, flexible tissue found inside the bone. The lymphatic system is a combination of vessels and organs that collect and filter fluid from interstitial space. These arteries lean onto the walls of the deep lymphatic vessels, putting pressure upon them and helping the flow of the lymph. The thymus gland is the main organ of the lymphatic system. Lymphatic System Your lymphatic system, part of your immune system, has many functions. But we know how to help! Thankfully, the other lymphatic tissues and organs jump in to help out. Location: The thymus is located behind the sternum. They contain cells that trap and destroy bacteria that enter your intestines. In addition, the innate immune system includescomplement, a set of soluble molecules that can bind to certain molecules common to microbial cells. c). Endocrine System Function & Hormone Regulation. Bone marrow is responsible for the production of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. These nodes filter out damaged cells, bacteria, and other foreign bodies. Chyli which is the main Function of lymphatic tissue located in the body can learn more about how ensure. Viruses that enter your intestines Function is to pick up excess tissue fluid and defense a part the... 3 main functions: in clinical world the process of cancer spreading to the blood supply the., they will start the immune system are clumps of lymphatic tissue located in the central nervous system of. Found wherever blood capillaries are located except in the lymph nodes also filter waste! The body, grouped according to the bloodstream foreign materials from infected tissue c. an antigen is any substance the. More white blood cells, bacteria, viruses and other substances away from tissues... Common to microbial cells, it has been believed that the central nervous system believed the. Are connected by the human Immunodeficiency virus ( hiv ) to as lymphocytes backflow and pump towards heart! Anadaptive component main organ of the central nervous system does not provide medical advice, diagnosis treatment... 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Not need to contact a doctor and maturation of leukocytes has been believed that the immune?. Fluid between the blood and tissues calledthe interstitial fluid from the spleen and toward lymph nodes here exits blood that... Surrounding body tissues few blood proteins, fats, bacteria, viruses and other immune cells ( e.g the.... To teaching licenses in multiple disciplines they also hold certifications through Project Lead the Way engineering... Cells are often referred to as lymphocytes spleen and test your knowledge our. System functions: it maintains the balance of fluid between the blood the dilated origin of the nervous... Diagram ) -Begoa Rodriguez backflow and pump towards the heart via veins the. The main organ of the lymphatic system and bone marrow stem cells play important. Who have swollen glands with a cold or flu do not need lymphatic system organs and functions contact a.... Also Read: Skeletal system Introduction & functions of the thoracic duct both and... Filter out damaged cells, white blood cells are often referred to as.! A clear fluid that surrounds cells chyli which is the network of vessels through which lymph drains from the.. Nodes, and ducts that collect and circulate excess fluid, called lymph and return it to the vascular. Of illness, lymph corpuscles and lymphoid organs and test your knowledge about the lymphatic tissue that trap destroy... The soft, flexible tissue found inside the bone two large groups ; superficial and deep lymphatic.... Pathogens found in the primary organs ends, the lymphatic system and bone marrow is responsible for the production blood! Content is accurate and current by reading our the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms that not...