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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
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Murine Mesenteric Lymphadenectomy for Selective Disruption of Lymphatic Communication with Region-Specific Gut
Published on: December 30, 2025
Retroperitoneal lymphatics on CT and MR.
Shalini Govil1, Asha Justus, Raghuram Lakshminarayanan
1Radiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. sgovil@touchtelindia.net
Abdominal Imaging
|September 1, 2006
Summary
Dilated retroperitoneal lymphatic channels can mimic lymph nodes on CT scans. MRI reveals these channels as a meshwork of fluid-filled structures, aiding diagnosis and monitoring treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Lymphatic System
Background:
- Dilated retroperitoneal lymphatic channels are uncommon and can present diagnostic challenges.
- Understanding their imaging characteristics is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Six patients with dilated retroperitoneal lymphatic channels were evaluated using CT and MRI.
- CT demonstrated these channels as low-density masses resembling lymph nodes in two patients.
- MR urography revealed a meshwork of multiple, tubular, tortuous, fluid-filled structures in the retroperitoneum.
Findings:
- Axial T1W images showed interconnected small, nodular, and streaky intensities.
- Axial T2W images displayed a diffuse, homogenous hyperintense cloak.
- Surgical confirmation of lymphatic nature was achieved in one patient.
- Anti-filarial therapy led to reduced calibre and number of channels in another patient.
Implications:
- Accurate identification of dilated retroperitoneal lymphatic channels on CT and MRI is essential.
- Imaging findings can guide diagnosis, especially in cases mimicking lymphadenopathy.
- Response to anti-filarial therapy suggests a potential role in managing filarial-induced lymphatic abnormalities.
- The presence of chyluria in four patients highlights a significant clinical manifestation.
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