Lymphatic obstruction

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Lymphatic obstruction

Chronic swelling, usually of the arm or leg, is the clinical hallmark of lymphatic obstruction.

Physical exam and history are most important for diagnosis. In some cases, lymphangiography may be performed. This involves injection of dye into lymphatic vessels followed by x-rays of the area. Lymphangiography requires surgical isolation of the lymph vessels to be injected and is therefore a difficult procedure.

Lymphoscintigraphy is an alternative technique in which a radioactive substance that concentrates in the lymphatic vessels is injected into the affected tissue and mapped using a gamma camera, which images the location of the radioactive tracer. Lymphoscintigraphy is less invasive and more easily performed and is often used as a substitute for lymphangiography.

MRI is being explored as a means to image lymphatic vessels.

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