Lymphography is a way to diagnose the lymphatic system. It implies the use of a contrast agent, as well as an X-ray. This method of diagnosis is also called radiolymphography. This method of diagnosis allows you to find out the state of the lymphatic system, detect an increase in lymph nodes or other changes in this location.
The main task of this method is aimed at detecting differences between malignant lesions of the lymph nodes and their inflammatory processes. According to statistics, it is this diagnostic method that helps to detect up to 40% of diseases associated with the lymphatic system in time and pose a real threat to the patient’s life.
Indications
It is recommended to undergo a diagnosis in cases when the patient detects any signs in his body that directly or at least indirectly indicate the presence of problems with the lymphatic system:
- inflammation of lymph vessels (even minor);
- pathologies of lymph nodes;
- swelling of the extremities;
- disorder of circulation and outflow of blood through the veins of the extremities.
Diseases that lymphography helps to detect
- Lymphadenitis. The cause of its origin and development is infection.
- Lymphogranulomatosis. This is a malignant disease. Moreover, cancerous tissue arises from lymphocytes.
- Lymphocytic leukemia. This is a malignant clonal lymphoproliferative pathology.
- Lymphosarcoma. Also a malignant tumor that has a certain type of origin.
- Reticulosarcoma. This disease is one of the varieties of sarcoma.
Contraindications
This type of diagnosis is not carried out in the presence of the following problems and diseases:
- acute period of viral or infectious diseases;
- pathology of the heart, liver, kidneys or lungs;
- iodine intolerance;
- serious condition of the patient;
- cachexia.
Alternatively, doctors recommend conducting an examination by palpation to detect pathologies of the lymphatic system in those places where the nodes are close to the skin.
Preparation
Preparation for the diagnosis of lymphatic vessels includes performing an allergic test for the presence of intolerance to the contrast agent. Before the procedure itself, it is necessary to empty the bladder. It is not recommended to eat 12 hours before the procedure. Otherwise, there are no special instructions.
Methods of diagnostics
The procedure can be carried out in several ways. The method of performing the diagnosis is established by the attending physician after assessing the patient’s condition. All these options combine the patient’s feelings that he will experience during the procedure.
After administration of the drug, the temperature may rise slightly, someone complains of fever in the body. In the first day after the examination, a feeling of nausea, dizziness, slight disorientation may remain. On the second and, at the latest, the third day, these symptoms completely disappear. The price of lymphography may also depend on the choice of the method of the procedure.
Direct lymphography
This is the introduction of a contrast agent directly into a lymphatic vessel. It is the most common method of diagnosis among oncologists, as it is considered the least traumatic. Direct diagnosis can be performed by lymphadenography (involves the introduction of a substance into the lymph node), as well as through the introduction of a substance into a vessel after the staining and puncture procedure.
Indirect lymphography
Also known as radioisotope or lymphoscintigraphy. With this method, contrast fluid is injected into the muscle mass, from where it enters the lymph system.
Radionuclide lymphography
With this diagnostic method, the substance is injected directly into the lymphatic system. A radiopharmaceutical substance is injected under the skin, which accumulates under the surface of the dermis, while emitting small (permissible) doses of radiation. After administration, the drug spreads through the lymphatic vessels. To obtain a lymphogram, fine substances are used – coinol, coind or lymphocys.
Interpretation
A lymphogram makes it possible to get a detailed answer about the state of your own lymphatic system. If there are any deviations from the norm, doctors will immediately be able to find and detect pathology by prescribing timely treatment.
Lymphography of lymphatic vessels is recommended for the slightest suspicion of abnormalities or diseases. Diagnostics will help determine the general condition of the patient and avoid serious health problems that may arise in the future.
Lymphography of both the lower extremities and the upper ones can be performed (depending on what problems the patient is experiencing). For more information, it is recommended to consult a general practitioner.
