LAB TEST
Lymphangiogram
A lymphangiogram is a special x-ray of the lymph nodes and lymph vessels. Lymph nodes produce lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) that help fight infections. The lymph nodes also filter and trap cancer cells. The lymph nodes and vessels are not seen on a normal x-ray , so a dye or radioisotope (radioactive compound) is injected into the body to highlight the area being studied.
How the Test is Performed
You may be offered medicine to help you relax before the test. You sit in a special chair or on an x-ray table. The health care provider cleans your feet, and then injects a small amount of blue dye into the area between your toes (called webbing). Thin, bluish lines appear on the top of the foot within 15 minutes.…
How to Prepare for the Test
You must sign a consent form. You may be asked to not eat or drink for several hours before the test. You may wish to empty your bladder just before the test. Tell the provider if you are pregnant or you have bleeding problems. Also mention if you have had an allergic reaction to x-ray contrast material or any…
How the Test will Feel
Some people feel a brief sting when the blue dye and numbing medicines are injected. You may feel pressure as the dye starts to flow into your body, particularly behind the knees and in the groin area. The surgical cuts will be sore for a few days. The blue dye causes skin, urine, and stool discoloration for about 2…
Why the Test is Performed
A lymphangiogram is used with lymph node biopsy to determine the possible spread of cancer and the effectiveness of cancer therapy. Contrast dye and x-rays are used to help determine the cause of swelling in an arm or leg and check for diseases that may be caused by parasites. Additional conditions under which the…
What Abnormal Results Mean
Enlarged lymph nodes ( swollen glands ) that have a foamy appearance may be a sign of lymphatic cancer. Nodes or parts of the nodes that do not fill with the dye suggest a blockage and may be a sign of cancer spreading through the lymph system. Blockage of the lymph vessels may be caused by tumor , infection, injury,…
Risks
Risks related to the injection of the dye (contrast medium) may include: Allergic reaction Fever Infection Inflammation of the lymph vessels There is low radiation exposure. However, most experts feel that the risk of most x-rays is smaller than other risks we take every day. Pregnant women and children are more…
Considerations
The dye (contrast medium) can stay in the lymph nodes for up to 2 years.
References
Rockson SG. Diseases of the lymphatic circulation. In: Creager MA, Beckman JA, Loscalzo J, eds. Vascular Medicine: A Companion to Braunwald's Heart Disease . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 57. Witte MH, Bernas MJ, Pires PW. Lymphatic pathophysiology. In: Sidawy AN, Perler BA, eds. Rutherford's Vascular…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 10/05/2024).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.