The key difference lies in their function and composition within the body's system. Tissue fluid nourishes and hydrates tissues, while lymph serves as a transport medium for proteins, fats, and sometimes foreign particles.
Tissue Fluid
Tissue fluid, also known as interstitial fluid, is the fluid that surrounds cells within tissues.
Functions of Tissue Fluid
- Nutrient Delivery: Brings oxygen and nutrients to cells.
- Waste Removal: Carries away carbon dioxide and metabolic wastes from cells.
- Hydration: Keeps tissues moist and hydrated.
Lymph
Lymph is a fluid derived from tissue fluid that is collected by lymphatic vessels and eventually returned to the bloodstream.
Functions of Lymph
- Transport: Transports proteins and fats. As the reference provided states: "tissue fluid nourishes and hydrates tissues, whereas lymph serves as a transport medium for proteins, fats, and sometimes foreign particles."
- Immune Response: Transports immune cells and foreign particles to lymph nodes, where immune responses are initiated.
- Fluid Balance: Returns excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, helping to maintain fluid balance.
Key Differences in a Table
| Feature | Tissue Fluid | Lymph |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Surrounds cells within tissues. | Within lymphatic vessels. |
| Function | Nourishes, hydrates, removes waste from tissues. | Transports proteins, fats, and immune cells; fluid balance. |
| Composition | Similar to blood plasma but with less protein. | Similar to tissue fluid but with more protein and immune cells. |
| Relationship | Lymph is derived from tissue fluid. | Lymph is collected and returned to the bloodstream. |
