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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
09:52
Non-invasive Optical Imaging of the Lymphatic Vasculature of a Mouse
Published on: March 8, 2013
Lymphatic abnormalities demonstrated by lymphoscintigraphy after lower limb cellulitis.
J K Soo1, T A Bicanic, S Heenan
1Department of Dermatology, St George's Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK. jsoo@doctors.org.uk
The British Journal of Dermatology
|February 5, 2008
Summary
Leg cellulitis often leads to lymphatic damage. This study found that most patients admitted with leg cellulitis have underlying lymphatic abnormalities, suggesting a link between impaired lymph drainage and recurrent infections.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Dermatology
- Lymphology
Background:
- Cellulitis is a frequent reason for hospital admission.
- Recurrent cellulitis episodes may damage the lymphatic system.
- Lymphoedema is a known risk factor for cellulitis, but its prevalence in cellulitis patients is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of lymphatic abnormalities in patients presenting with lower limb cellulitis.
- To determine if lymphatic dysfunction is a common issue in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving patients admitted with lower limb cellulitis.
- Clinical examination and lymphoscintigraphy were performed.
- Analysis of lymph drainage patterns using imaging.
Main Results:
- Thirty patients participated; fifteen underwent lymphoscintigraphy.
- Thirteen of fifteen patients (87%) showed abnormal lymphoscintigraphy results.
- Seven patients (47%) had clinical signs of lymphoedema, with impaired lymph drainage indicated by scans.
Conclusions:
- Lymphatic abnormalities are a significant and frequently overlooked issue in patients with leg cellulitis.
- Impaired lymph drainage may contribute to the development or recurrence of cellulitis.
- Further research is warranted to explore the relationship and management strategies.
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