Question

Describe fluid exchange between capillaries and the interstitial fluid. Be sure to discuss the forces (pressure) that moves the fluid and the direction in which fluid moves. (4 points) In one to three sentences, describe the role of lymphatic system in this fluid exchange. (3 points) g

Answer 1

Capillary exchange is the exchange of fluid from the capillaries into the interstitial fluid and vice versa. Diffusion, transcytosis, and bulk flow are three mechanisms that facilitate capillary exchange.

The blood plasma or interstitial fluid exerts a pressure of the fluid on the capillary walls known as Hydrostatic pressure. Osmotic pressure is a pressure exerted by proteins either in the blood plasma or interstitial fluid called oncotic pressure.

Lymphatic capillaries gather lymphatic fluid and regulate the pressure of interstitial fluid due to the forces of hydrostatic or oncotic pressure. An essential role of the lymphatic system is to return the fluid to the blood.