Will has just been diagnosed with melanoma on the anteromedial surface of his thigh.  Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, in large part because it tends to spread through the body (metastasize) fairly quickly.  To determine if Will’s cancer has metastasized, Will’s doctor takes a sample of tissue from his lymph nodes and looks for the presence of cancer cells. If cancer cells are found in the lymph nodes, Will may have some lymph nodes surgically removed.  Will’s doctor warns him that he may experience uncomfortable swelling in his leg if this happens A) Explain why Will’s doctor is looking at the inguinal lymph nodes first to determine if the melanoma has spread.  (A complete answer will include an explanation of why the ymph nodes and why these lymph nodes in particular.) B) Use what you’ve learned about the lymphatic system to explain why removal of the lymph nodes may cause swelling in Will’s leg.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...
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Will has just been diagnosed with melanoma on the anteromedial surface of his thigh.  Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, in large part because it tends to spread through the body (metastasize) fairly quickly.  To determine if Will’s cancer has metastasized, Will’s doctor takes a sample of tissue from his lymph nodes and looks for the presence of cancer cells. If cancer cells are found in the lymph nodes, Will may have some lymph nodes surgically removed.  Will’s doctor warns him that he may experience uncomfortable swelling in his leg if this happens

A) Explain why Will’s doctor is looking at the inguinal lymph nodes first to determine if the melanoma has spread.  (A complete answer will include an explanation of why the ymph nodes and why these lymph nodes in particular.)

B) Use what you’ve learned about the lymphatic system to explain why removal of the lymph nodes may cause swelling in Will’s leg.

Expert Solution
Step 1

Introduction:

The lymphatic system is a system of tissues, veins, and organs that work together to return lymph, a colourless, watery fluid, to your circulatory system (bloodstream). It defends your body from foreign invaders: The immune system includes the lymphatic system.

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