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Postirradiation changes on the lymphatics studied by lymphography.
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|July 1, 1979
Summary
Radiotherapy can alter lymphatic system structure, causing decreased lymph node size and vessel narrowing. These radiation-induced changes stabilize within 12 months and depend on the absorbed radiation dose.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Lymphatic System Imaging
Background:
- Radiotherapy is a common cancer treatment.
- Understanding its effects on the lymphatic system is crucial for patient management.
- Lymphography is a diagnostic imaging technique for the lymphatic system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effects of radiotherapy on the lymphatic system.
- To determine the relationship between absorbed radiation dose and observed changes.
- To assess the progression and stability of radiation-induced lymphatic alterations.
Main Methods:
- Repeat lymphography was performed on 33 patients post-radiotherapy.
- Patients received 60Co-teletherapy with varying absorbed doses.
- Changes in lymph node size, lymphatic vessel lumen, and lymph node number were assessed.
Main Results:
- The primary effects observed were decreased lymph node size (66.6%) and lymphatic vessel lumen narrowing (51.5%).
- A reduction in the number of lymph nodes and vessels was rare (6%).
- Radiation-induced changes developed within 12 months and did not progress further, with dose being a key factor.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy significantly alters lymphatic system morphology, primarily affecting lymph node size and vessel diameter.
- The observed changes are dose-dependent and stabilize within a year post-treatment.
- Lymphatic circulation blockage was not observed, and apparent thoracic duct dilatation is likely arteficial.