[Sonographic imaging of lymphatic vessels compared to other methods]

Abstract

This paper reviews for the first time the normal and abnormal appearances of lymphatic channels of the skin using ultrasound. After a review of anatomy and histology, the authors present the current imaging modalities available for lymph vessel imaging. The ultrasound examination is presented with a description of the author's technique as well as the technical requirements of the ultrasound unit (12 MHz linear probe with a resolution of 400 microns). They present the ultrasound appearance of normal lymphatic channels and their relationships to the dermis, hypodermis and lymph nodes, and at last the ultrasound appearance of abnormal lymphatic pathways