Question

Which human organ system returns excess interstitial fluid to the blood?

a. Respiratory system
b. Circulatory system
c. Lymphatic system
d. Digestive system

Answer 1

The lymphatic system is responsible for returning excess interstitial fluid to the blood, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune system functions.

Step-by-step explanation:

This system plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance within the body. Essentially, out of the 20 liters of plasma that move from the bloodstream into the tissue spaces every day, about 17 liters are reabsorbed directly by the blood vessels. The lymphatic system drains the remaining three liters of this fluid, now known as lymph, and routes it back into the bloodstream through a network of vessels, trunks, and ducts. The lymphatic system is not only vital for fluid balance but also forms an integral part of the immune system by transporting immune cells and removing pathogens.