Fluorescence microlymphography of the upper extremities. Evaluation with a new computer programme.
BACKGROUND
To evaluate the initial lymphatics of the superficial skin in healthy volunteers using fluorescence microlymphography and to establish controls values for comparison with lymphedema patients.


METHODS
Fluorescence microlymphography was performed on the hand dorsum, on the lower and the upper arm in 12 healthy subjects (58.7+/-8.0 years). At each of these sites 10 microl FITC-dextran was injected subepidermally using a steel cannula. The studies were recorded on video tape using a fluorescence microscope and a CCD video camera. Final magnification was 24 and 62. The maximum spread of the fluorescent contrast medium was measured 10 minutes after injection. The area of the visualized lymph capillaries was determined using a computer programme.


METHODS
University Hospital, Department of Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine (Angiology).


RESULTS
The mean area of the visualised lymph capillary network 95.3+/-41.3 mm2 (42-174 mm) at the upper and 89.4+/-45.5 mm2 (44-171 mm). The maximum spread was 4.8+/-3.5 mm (1.9-13.6 mm) and 4.4+/-3.7 mm, respectively. The mean diameter of the lymph capillaries was 84.1+/-19.9 microm and 75.5+/-14.8 microm, respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
The extension of the lymph capillary network at the upper and lower arm are comparable to those at the lower extremities. Considering the two-dimensional nature and the irregular shape of the network the area measurement seems to be more appropriate than the maximum spread in one direction.
Läuchli
S
S
Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland.
Haldimann
L
L
Leu
A J
AJ
Franzeck
U K
UK
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001132:Arm / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008220:Lymphography / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008832:Microchemistry; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence; D008875:Middle Aged; D012984:Software; D014743:Videotape Recording