[Indirect lymphography--possibilities and limits of roentgen diagnosis of the lymphatic system]

Indirect lymphangiography enables to opacify peripheral lymph-collectors. In case of lymph valve insufficiency and dermal back flow also small skin lymphatics can be visualized. Indirect lymphangiography showed various new lymphatic patterns in different kinds of leg oedema. Specificity of 89% and sensitivity of 97% recommends the method as a good diagnostic tool for diagnosis of lymphoedema in a suspected clinical situation. Indirect lymphangiography is not able to opacify proximal or central lymphcollectors and lymph nodes.