The epiglottis is not a lymph node nor is it part of the lymphatic system. The epiglottis is a thin membrane located in the throat. Its main job is to act as the switch between the larynx and the esophagus to either let air into the lungs or food into the stomach. In the relaxed position, the membrane allows air into the lungs. It is actively engaged only when swallowing.
The thyroid, thymus, spleen and tonsils all work as part of the immune and endocrine systems to regulate body stasis. The thyroid helps to control hormone levels in the blood. The thymus is a gland which produces T cells until puberty. The spleen filters blood, stores platelets and aids in replacing old red blood cells. The tonsils are lymph nodes, positioned at the back of the throat to trap and sample bacteria entering the body through the airway.
No comments:
Post a Comment