A model of focal cancer in rabbit lymph nodes.
OBJECTIVE
We sought to develop a model of focal cancer in the rabbit lymph node.


METHODS
Under computed tomography (CT) guidance, 4-5 million VX2 cells were directly injected into the popliteal nodes of 14 anesthetized New Zealand White rabbits. Fifteen to 18 days later, percutaneous lymphography was performed with CT scanning using radiopaque nanoparticulates and massage. Histologic correlation also was obtained.


RESULTS
In 12 of the 14 animals, focal lesions were successfully created within (n = 6) and adjacent (n = 6) to the node, and all animals appeared to be healthy when euthanized. Within 15 min after massage, CT lymphography showed homogeneous enhancement of normal node regions and no enhancement of cancer. There was good agreement between histology and lymphography.


CONCLUSIONS
This method is suitable as a model to test for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Jiang
D Y
DY
Center for Imaging and Pharmaceutical Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown 02129-2060, USA.
Gazelle
G S
GS
Wolf
G L
GL
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006614:Hindlimb; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis; D008220:Lymphography; D008297:Male; D009368:Neoplasm Transplantation; D011817:Rabbits; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014407:Tumor Cells, Cultured