[Lymphatic system and lymphoscintigraphy]

Starting from Hippocrates era, the lymphatic system has been an interesting area of study for its anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and imaging. The present review describes the history of the lymphatic system and lymphoscintigraphy. Lymphoscintigraphy comprises a simple, non-invasive imaging method of the lymphatic system and the sentinel lymph node or nodes. Additionally the intra-operative gamma-probe detection and the blue dye technique are also presented. The nuclear methods have been incorporated in the algorithm of the diagnostic approach and the therapeutic treatment of cutaneous melanoma and breast cancer, while further experience is warranted in other solid malignancies.