A function of deep lymphatic system in lymphedema and treatment for the deep lymphatic system

2018 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 16K20358
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Plastic surgery
• Research Institution: Okayama University
• Principal Investigator: Shinaoka Akira 岡山大学, 医歯薬学総合研究科, 助教 (90724500)
• Project Period (FY): 2016-04-01 – 2019-03-31
• Keywords: リンパ管 / リンパ節

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The purpose of this study was the showing relationship between lymphatics anatomy and pathophysiology of lymphedema, finally established the strategy of treatment in lymphedema according to anatomical information. At first, new cadaveric dissection techniques with ICG lymphography was established and new contrast medium for cadaveric lymphangiography was developed. This new research technique of lymphatic anatomy showed whole lymphatic vessels in lower limbs and classified into four lymphatic group, and these lymphatic group had relationship with three lymph nodes (one in popliteal and two in inguinal). In lymphedema patients, damage to lymphatic system leaned to a certain lymphatic group in these four lymphatic groups. The changing pattern of lymphatic anatomy in lymphedema brought new strategy of lymphatic surgery.

Free Research Field

解剖学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

リンパ系は心血管系とは別の循環系である。中にはリンパが流れ、免疫や水分を流し調節する役割を担っている。がん治療の際に、切除され放射線が当たることで、リンパ系の機能低下が生じる。ひどくなるとリンパ浮腫を発症するが、詳細な発症機序は不明であり、十分な治療法も存在しない。我々はリンパ系解剖をすすめ、リンパ浮腫の発症原因の一因に深部リンパ系が関係あることを示唆している。今後の治療応用が期待される。