Extracellular fluid (ECF)

Definition

Extracellular fluid is the body fluid located outside the cells, serving as a medium for the exchange of substances between cells and their environment. It includes fluids found in blood vessels and interstitial spaces that surround cells.

Related terms

Interstitial Fluid: The part of extracellular fluid that fills the spaces between most cells of the body, providing a constant environment for cells to function.

Plasma:

The liquid component of blood that is part of extracellular fluid where blood cells are suspended, involved in transporting nutrients, waste products, and other substances.

Homeostasis:

The process by which an organism maintains a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions; ECF plays a critical role in this process