What are the two main components of the lymphatic system?
Fluid (lymph) and tubes (lymphatic vessels).
Is the lymphatic system a high or low pressure system?
Low pressure system (no pump).
What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?
1) Homeostasis – drains excess interstitial fluid
2) Transportation – dietary lipids and lipid-soluble vitamins
3) Immune response – supports innate and adaptive immunity
What are lymphatic capillaries?
Smallest lymph vessels; closed at one end, have large pores, and are associated with capillary beds.
How does lymph move through the body?
Blood capillaries → interstitial fluid → lymphatic capillaries → lymphatic vessels → lymphatic trunks → lymphatic ducts → vena cava.
What are lacteals?
Specialized lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine that absorb dietary lipids too large for blood capillaries.
