Perturbation of lymphatic endothelial cells in experimental Brugia malayi infections

Infection with filarial nematodes induces lymphatic dysfunction in many individuals in endemic areas. The present morphometric study describes changes in lymphatic endothelial cells of Brugia-infected cats. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a decrease in the number of cytoplasmic vesicles in endothelial cells from lymphatic vessels harboring filarial nematodes (4.9 vesicles per micron 2 cytoplasm) when compared with similar cells from the contralateral uninfected control vessels (9.0 vesicles per micron 2). The size of the vesicles and their location within the cytoplasm was not changed. Irregular large vacuoles, often containing degenerating organelles, were common in endothelial cells lining Brugia-infected lymphatic vessels. These studies suggest that damage of cells by living or dead worms or worm products may have a direct effect on the endothelial lining of lymphatic vessels. This may compromise the efficiency of vessels that collect and transport edematous fluid in affected limbs.