Related Experiment Videos
Evaluation of lymphatic function: abnormal lymph drainage in venous disease
1Department of Medicine, St. George's Hospital Medical School, London, England.
Summary
Quantitative lymphoscintigraphy reveals lymphatic insufficiency contributes to chronic venous leg ulcers. Impaired lymph drainage in ulcerated limbs suggests lymphatic pathology is crucial for healing.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Lymphatic Physiology
Background:
- The lymphatic system returns large molecules to circulation.
- Quantitative lymphoscintigraphy aids in diagnosing limb swelling and lymphedema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of lymphatic insufficiency in poor wound healing in chronic venous leg ulcers.
- To compare lymphatic function in ulcerated limbs versus healthy limbs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized quantitative lymphoscintigraphy.
- Compared 32 patients with chronic venous leg ulcers to 22 healthy controls.
- Analyzed lymphatic function based on age and ulcer presence.
Main Results:
- Lymphatic function was significantly reduced in ulcerated limbs of patients under 65.
- In older patients (>65), reduced lymphatic function in ulcerated limbs was not statistically significant due to age-related decline in controls.
- Patients with unilateral ulcers showed reduced lymphatic function in the affected limb compared to the contralateral limb.
Conclusions:
- Impaired lymph drainage is a significant factor in chronic venous leg ulcers.
- Lymphatic pathology may be as critical as venous pathology in these ulcers.
- Treatment strategies should address both lymphatic and venous function for improved healing.