Texas Esthetician License Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a function of the lymphatic system?

1. To transport oxygen throughout the body

2. To deliver nutrients throughout the body

3. To filter and return lymph to the bloodstream

4. To support immune function

The correct answer is: To deliver nutrients throughout the body

The correct choice identifies a function that falls outside the primary roles of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is primarily involved in the transportation of lymph, which is a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, as well as aiding in immune responses and filtering cellular waste. While it does play a significant role in maintaining fluid balance and supporting immune function, it does not actively transport nutrients throughout the body. Nutrient delivery is primarily the function of the circulatory system, which is responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products through the bloodstream to various cells and tissues. In contrast, the lymphatic system circulates lymph fluid, filters out toxins and pathogens via lymph nodes, and returns excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, which supports immune function and maintains fluid balance. This delineation helps clarify why transporting nutrients is not part of the lymphatic system's primary functions.