Body Fluids and Fluid Compartments

Definition

Body fluids encompass all the liquids within the human body that facilitate vital physiological functions, including blood, lymph, and interstitial fluid among others. Fluid compartments refer to the specific spaces or environments within the body where these fluids are contained and segregated, such as intracellular (within cells) and extracellular (outside cells) compartments.

Related terms

Intracellular fluid: The liquid found inside cells, making up about two-thirds of the body's total water volume.

Extracellular fluid: The fluid outside cells, which includes interstitial fluid between cells, blood plasma in vessels, and cerebrospinal fluid among others.

Electrolytes:

Minerals in body fluids that carry an electric charge and are essential for basic bodily functions such as muscle contraction and nerve transmission