What is the relationship between lymph and blood?

Question

Adeline Allen · Accepted Answer

Blood and the lymphatic system are joined together by a system of capillaries. They are both types of circulatory systems, and although they work separately to perform different functions, both are vital to the function of the body and the immune system.

The cardiovascular system regulates blood flow and is in charge of transporting nutrients, oxygen, and chemicals to organs and tissue throughout the body. Blood flows to the kidneys for filtration, where waste products are eliminated from the blood, but the lymphatic system also plays a part in this process. During the day, waste is produced by muscles and blood vessels and enters the lymphatic system through vessels. Waste is removed by lymph nodes, and the filtered fluids proceed to the lymphatic ducts where they are re-distributed into the blood. The lymph, or remaining fluid, is home to lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system. The capillary system establishes a connection between the blood and lymphatic systems because capillaries and other types of vessels are found in both systems. The location of blood vessels corresponds to the location of lymphatic vessels. Unlike blood vessels, lymphatic vessels are able to distribute fluid without the need for force.

Josiah Austin · Answer

undefined Lymph is derived from blood plasma and is closely related to blood. It is formed from interstitial fluid that enters lymphatic vessels. Lymph contains white blood cells and proteins and plays a crucial role in the immune system by transporting immune cells and antigens throughout the body.