The lymphatic pathways begin as lymphatic capillaries, which are small, dead-end tubes.
Lymphatic capillaries are tiny, thin-walled vessels that are found throughout the body, weaving between tissues and cells. They are designed to collect excess interstitial fluid, which is the fluid that surrounds cells in tissues, and transport it back to the circulatory system. These capillaries have closed ends and are highly permeable, allowing them to take up not only fluid but also proteins, waste products, and pathogens that might be present in the tissue fluid.
Once the fluid enters the lymphatic capillaries, it is known as lymph. This collected lymph then moves into larger lymphatic vessels and eventually drains into the bloodstream, helping to maintain fluid balance in the body and playing a crucial role in the immune system.