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Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Vertebral Lymphatic Vasculature and Drainage using iDISCO+ and Light Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
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Anatomical Features of the Deep Cervical Lymphatic System and Intrajugular Lymphatic Vessels in Humans
Kaan Yağmurlu1,2, Jennifer D Sokolowski1,2, Musa Çırak1
1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA.
Brain Sciences
|December 15, 2020
Summary
Central nervous system lymphatics connect to deep cervical lymph nodes (DCLNs) via the jugular foramen. This study details the anatomical features and variations of these lymphatic pathways, crucial for understanding CNS disease spread.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Rodent studies suggest central nervous system (CNS) lymphatic connections.
- These connections involve dural lymphatic vessels linking the subarachnoid space to deep cervical lymph nodes (DCLNs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the anatomical connections between DCLNs and the intracranial space via the jugular foramen.
- To describe the anatomical characteristics and variations of DCLNs and associated neck lymphatic channels.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 12 formalin-fixed human head and neck specimens.
- Immunohistochemical analysis of dural samples from the jugular foramen using podoplanin and CD45.
Main Results:
- The average number of DCLNs was 6.91 ± 0.58 per side, with measured dimensions provided.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed lymphatic vessels traversing the jugular foramen from the intracranial space into the neck, termed intrajugular lymphatic vessels.
Conclusions:
- DCLNs and their intracranial connections through the jugular foramen are a potential route for CNS cancer metastasis.
- A thorough understanding of the anatomy and variations of these lymphatic structures is essential.
Keywords:
deep cervical lymph nodeshead and neck cancerjugular foramenlymphatic channelsmeningeal lymphaticsmetastasisneck anatomyneurolymphatic systemMore Related Videos
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