Capillaries are the primary structures in the circulatory system that allow the exchange of gas, nutrients, and other materials between the blood and the extracellular fluid (ECF). Capillaries are the smallest of the blood vessels. Because a capillary diameter is so small, only 1 RBC may pass through at a time. Capillaries are organized into capillary beds, which are extensive networks of branches and anastomoses. Blood flows from the metarterioles, into the capillaries, out the thoroughfare channel, and into venules. Continuous, fenestrated, and sinusoid (discontinuous) capillaries are the 3 primary types, and each has a slightly different structure. Capillary dysfunction can occur either as a result of or a contribution to the clinical manifestation of many clinical conditions.