Lymphatic and Immune Systems Case Study

Introduction

In this assignment, you will review the case study and answer the corresponding questions. You will need to apply the concepts related to the lymphatic and immune systems learned in this module.

Remember to use your OWN words as turn it in as my teachers use it. 

The Case Study

The Discovery

• Rebecca Jones is a typical second-grader at Orchard Hills school. Rebecca is usually a happy child but has not been feeling well for the past day or so and has been experiencing a fever, headache, and severe throat pain when swallowing.  

At the Doctor

Rebecca’s mom took her to the doctor who examined her and found the following:

Tonsils are red, swollen, and contain white exudate

Fever of 101° F

Bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy

CBC indicated leukocytosis and neutrophilia

The doctor diagnosed Rebecca with acute bacterial pharyngitis and prescribed a course of antibiotics. After a few days, Rebecca began to feel better and made a full recovery.

Case Study Questions

The pediatrician described Rebecca’s pharynx, uvula, and tonsils as swollen, and red. Describe how the immune system triggers inflammation.

The exudate on Rebecca’s tonsils consisted primarily of neutrophils. Describe the role of neutrophils in helping to overcome a bacterial infection.

Describe the role of the lymph nodes and other lymphatic organs in overcoming a bacterial infection.

1. Describe how fever is produced and how fever can help to overcome a bacterial infection.