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Related Concept Videos

Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport01:16

Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport

Lymphatic vessels, known as lymphatics, are crucial in transporting lymph from peripheral tissues to our venous system. This process begins with lymph entering through tiny capillaries that branch through tissues. These capillaries have unique features such as larger diameters, thinner walls, and a distinctive one-way valve system formed by overlapping endothelial cells.
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
Development of the Lymphatic System01:15

Development of the Lymphatic System

The development of lymphatic tissues and vessels in embryonic life begins around the fifth week. These structures originate from the mesoderm layer, with lymph sacs emerging from developing veins.
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
Fluid Connective Tissues: Blood and Lymph01:20

Fluid Connective Tissues: Blood and Lymph

Blood and lymph are fluid connective tissues. They contain cells, also known as formed elements, circulating in a liquid extracellular matrix, the plasma. The formed elements are derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. Blood and lymph connect all vital parts and carry nutrients, oxygen, and other essential molecules like antibodies.
Blood
The blood flows through blood vessels— arteries, capillaries, and veins. Blood plasma is primarily made of proteins, solutes, and water.
Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System01:23

Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System

Immunity is a crucial biological concept about our body's inherent capacity to prevent infections and diseases. A complex network of cells and tissues collectively known as the immune system facilitates this natural defense mechanism. The immune system plays an integral role in maintaining our health and well-being, shielding us from potential health threats.
The immune responses can be categorized into two types: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity comprises nonspecific defenses we are born...
Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes01:23

Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are bean-shaped structures that cluster along the lymphatic vessels in the inguinal, axillary, and cervical regions. Each node is divided into compartments by a capsule that extends trabeculae inward.
From a histological perspective, lymph nodes can be split into two main areas: the superficial cortex and the deep medulla. The outer cortex is populated by dendritic cells, macrophages, and B lymphocytes, which are densely packed into follicles. When these B-lymphocytes are presented...
Ascites01:19

Ascites

DefinitionAscites is the buildup of fluid inside the peritoneal cavity. It occurs when fluid moves out of the vascular system faster than the peritoneal lymphatics can remove it. This fluid shift is most commonly seen in liver cirrhosis but can also appear in several other systemic disorders.EtiologyCirrhosis remains the leading cause of ascites. Other conditions that can contribute include:Heart failureConstrictive pericarditisAbdominal cancersNephrotic syndromeSevere protein–calorie...

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The Human Male Mammary Gland has Similar Epithelial Populations to Female but Distinct Composition and Transcriptional Properties.

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Pharmacotherapy agents in prevention and treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic scoping review.

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Proteomic Analysis of Small Extracellular Vesicles From Lymphatic Affluents in Developing Premetastatic Niche in Melanoma.

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"Use of Axillary Reverse Mapping to Prevent Lymphedema During Breast Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review".

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 22, 2026

A Murine Tail Lymphedema Model
04:38

A Murine Tail Lymphedema Model

Published on: February 10, 2021

Lymphedema: separating fact from fiction.

Sarah A McLaughlin1

  • 1Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA. Mclaughlin.sarah@mayo.edu

Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.)
|May 2, 2012
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Lymphedema, a complication of cancer treatment, impacts survivorship. Emerging data suggest exercise may benefit women at risk or affected by lymphedema.

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Integrating Augmented Reality Tools in Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Prognostication and Diagnosis
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A Revised Method for Inducing Secondary Lymphedema in the Hindlimb of Mice
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A Revised Method for Inducing Secondary Lymphedema in the Hindlimb of Mice

Published on: November 2, 2019

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Last Updated: May 22, 2026

A Murine Tail Lymphedema Model
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A Murine Tail Lymphedema Model

Published on: February 10, 2021

Integrating Augmented Reality Tools in Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Prognostication and Diagnosis
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Published on: February 6, 2020

A Revised Method for Inducing Secondary Lymphedema in the Hindlimb of Mice
09:50

A Revised Method for Inducing Secondary Lymphedema in the Hindlimb of Mice

Published on: November 2, 2019

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Surgical Oncology
  • Lymphedema Research

Background:

  • Lymphedema is a significant complication following cancer treatment, particularly breast cancer, with reported incidence rates varying widely.
  • Current diagnostic and assessment guidelines for lymphedema are lacking, contributing to its under-reporting as a morbidity.
  • While radiation, chemotherapy, and extent of surgery are implicated, the direct correlation between the number of lymph nodes removed and lymphedema risk remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of lymphedema as a cancer treatment complication.
  • To discuss risk factors, diagnostic challenges, and emerging management strategies for lymphedema.
  • To highlight the need for evidence-based guidelines and further research into lymphedema etiology and prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on lymphedema following cancer treatment.
  • Analysis of commonly cited risk factors and their correlation with lymphedema development.
  • Examination of current clinical trial focuses and risk-reduction practices.

Main Results:

  • The incidence of breast cancer-related lymphedema is highly variable (6%-70%) and often under-reported.
  • Established risk factors include radiation, chemotherapy, and extent of axillary surgery, though node count correlation is weak.
  • Many advocated risk-reduction practices lack rigorous scientific evidence.

Conclusions:

  • Lymphedema poses a significant challenge to cancer survivorship, necessitating improved diagnostic and management strategies.
  • Further research is crucial to elucidate the etiology of lymphedema and establish evidence-based prevention and treatment guidelines.
  • Emerging evidence supports the cautious introduction of exercise for women at risk or affected by lymphedema.