Body fluid compartments

What are the two major fluid compartments in total body water?

Extracellular fluid (ECF) and intracellular fluid (ICF).

What does extracellular fluid (ECF) consist of?

Plasma in blood vessels and interstitial fluid (IF) surrounding cells.

What is included in the extracellular fluid apart from plasma and interstitial fluid?

Lymph and transcellular fluid (TF), such as cerebrospinal fluid and joint fluids.

What is the primary function of extracellular fluid?

It provides a medium for transporting substances to and from cells.

What is the primary function of intracellular fluid (ICF)?

It facilitates intracellular chemical reactions that maintain life.

Which fluid compartment has the largest volume in the body?

Intracellular fluid (ICF) with a volume of 25 L.

Which fluid compartment has the smallest volume in the body?

Plasma with a volume of 3 L.

How much interstitial fluid is typically present compared to other fluid compartments?

Interstitial fluid is typically 12 L, which is between plasma and intracellular fluid volumes.

What serves as the internal environment of the body?

Extracellular fluid (ECF).