Question

Once collected, lymph ultimately drains into __________.

Answer 1

Lymph collected in the body is ultimately drained into larger lymphatic vessels, known as lymphatic trunks. These trunks lead to either the right lymphatic duct or the thoracic duct, which then drain into the right and left subclavian veins, respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

Once collected, lymph ultimately drains into the larger lymphatic vessels known as lymphatic trunks, which empty into the bloodstream via various lymphatic ducts. Specifically, on the right side of the body, the lymph from the right sides of the head, thorax, and right upper limb drains into the right subclavian vein through the right lymphatic duct.

On the left side of the body, the remaining portions of the body’s lymphatic fluid drains via the thoracic duct, which empties into the left subclavian vein. The thoracic duct originates at the cisterna chyli, receiving lymph from lower regions of the body. Throughout its journey, lymph passes through numerous lymph nodes, filtering and monitoring for immune function before rejoining the bloodstream.

Answer 2

Once collected, lymph ultimately drains into venous circulation.
Lymph goes from terminal lymphatic ducts into venous circulation through the subclavian veins.
Lymph is not filtered or detoxicated yet at this point, and it doesn't go to arterial circulation because that would just distribute it all over the body, instead of just the heart.