No, lymph does not normally contain red blood cells (RBCs).
The primary role of lymph is to transport fluids, proteins, fats, and white blood cells (WBCs) throughout the body. According to the provided reference, lymphatic fluid is densely populated by WBCs, but it "does not normally contain any red blood cells." This distinction is crucial in understanding the composition and function of the lymphatic system compared to the circulatory system.
Here's a breakdown:
- Lymph Composition: Lymph mainly comprises water, proteins, salts, glucose, fats, and WBCs.
- Absence of RBCs: The absence of RBCs is a key characteristic of normal lymph. The presence of RBCs in lymph might indicate an injury or abnormality within the lymphatic system.
In summary, while lymph is a vital fluid for immune function and fluid balance, it typically does not contain RBCs.
