Lymph does contain white blood cells (WBCs) but lacks red blood cells (RBCs). Lymph is a fluid that circulates throughout the body, collecting waste and transporting it to the bloodstream. It's derived from blood, but it's filtered through capillary walls, leaving behind most of the RBCs.
Key Points:
- Lymph is a colorless fluid, unlike blood, which is red due to the presence of RBCs.
- Lymph is rich in WBCs, particularly lymphocytes, which are essential for the immune system.
- The absence of RBCs in lymph is because RBCs are too large to pass through the capillary walls during filtration.
Examples:
- The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fighting infections by transporting WBCs to the site of infection.
- Conditions like lymphoma can affect the lymphatic system, causing an abnormal increase in lymphocytes.
Practical Insights:
- Analyzing lymph fluid can be a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying various medical conditions.
- Understanding the composition of lymph is crucial for comprehending the body's immune response and its role in maintaining overall health.
