Question

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what is the function of the lymphatic system in fluid balance?
to absorb extra fluid from the bloodstream, causing swelling and edema.
to eliminate all fluid from the body, causing dehydration.
to transport excess fluid from tissues back into the bloodstream, preventing swelling and edema.
to produce more fluid and increase swelling in the body.
to transport fluid from the bloodstream out into tissues, causing swelling and edema.

Explanation:

The lymphatic system's role in fluid balance is to collect excess interstitial fluid from tissues. If this fluid isn't returned, it accumulates, causing swelling (edema). The system transports this excess back to the bloodstream. Options that suggest causing edema (by taking fluid from blood to tissues or leaving fluid in tissues) or eliminating all fluid (causing dehydration) or producing more fluid (increasing swelling) are incorrect.

Answer:

To transport excess fluid from tissues back into the bloodstream, preventing swelling and edema.