Abstract
Novel lymphatic imaging and interventional techniques are increasingly used in the
diagnostic workup and treatment of pathologies of the central lymphatic system and
have opened a new field of interventional radiology. The mainstay of lymphatic imaging
today is magnetic resonance lymphangiography (MRL). It provides information on the
anatomy of the central lymphatic system, lymphatic flow, as well as lymphatic pathologies
and therefore is a valuable tool for treatment planning. There are two techniques
to perform contrast-enhanced MRL: nodal dynamic contrast-enhanced MRL (nodal DCE-MRL)
and interstitial transpedal MRL (tMRL). Nodal DCE-MRL yields superior information
on lymphatic flow dynamics and is therefore best suited for suspected lymphatic flow
pathologies and lymphatic malformations. tMRL is a technically simpler alternative
for central lymphatic visualization without the need for sonographically guided lymph
node cannulation. This review article describes current MRL techniques with a focus
on contrast-enhanced MRL, their specific advantages, and possible clinical applications
in patients suffering from pathologies of the central lymphatic system.
Keywords
MR lymphangiography - lymphatic leakage - chylothorax - chylous ascites - lymphatic
malformation - interventional radiology
