Immune System Lymphatic System Lymph system is closely associated with cardiovascular system. Functions a. Takes up excess tissue fluid and returns it to bloodstream. Absorbs fats in intestinal villi and transports them to bloodstream.
Helps defend body against disease.
Most body regions richly supplied with lymphatic capillaries. Structure of larger lymph vessels similar to veins including presence of valves. Movement of lymph depends upon skeletal muscle contraction, similar to veins. Lymph capillaries take up unabsorbed tissue fluid. Edema is local accumulation of fluid in tissue causing swelling.