Imaging the lymphatic system

• The lymphatic system is central to immune function, fluid homeostasis and provides pathways for cancer dissemination
• Abnormal lymphatic function results in lymphedema and morbidity
• Visualizing the lymphatic system is a challenge in the clinic
• Experimental models allow studies of lymphatic function and development of new imaging methodologies

Visualization of the lymphatic system is clinically necessary during diagnosis or treatment of many conditions and diseases; it is used for identifying and monitoring lymphedema, for detecting metastatic lesions during cancer staging and for locating lymphatic structures so they can be spared during surgical procedures. Imaging lymphatic anatomy and function also plays an important role in experimental studies of lymphatic development and function, where spatial resolution and accessibility are better. Here, we review technologies for visualizing and imaging the lymphatic system for clinical applications. We then describe the use of lymphatic imaging in experimental systems as well as some of the emerging technologies for improving these methodologies.