Question

bio - 202 topic 2: blood and lymphatic system physiology
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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 transport fluid from the bloodstream out into tissues, 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.

Explanation:

The lymphatic system's role in fluid balance is to collect excess interstitial fluid (from tissues) and return it to the bloodstream. This prevents fluid accumulation (swelling/edema). The first option is incorrect as it wrongly states absorption from bloodstream (should be tissues). The second option is wrong as it's about return, not transport out. The third option is incorrect as eliminating all fluid would be harmful (and not its role). The fifth option is wrong as it doesn't produce fluid to increase swelling.

Answer:

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