lymphoscintigraphiát

Lymphoscintigraphy is a medical imaging technique used to assess the lymphatic system. It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive tracer, typically a radiopharmaceutical, into the tissue near a lymph node. The tracer then travels through the lymphatic vessels, allowing a special camera, called a gamma camera, to detect and record its movement. This process helps visualize the flow of lymph and identify any blockages or abnormalities in the lymphatic system.

The primary use of lymphoscintigraphy is to locate sentinel lymph nodes. The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node that drains fluid from a tumor. Identifying and examining these nodes is crucial in staging certain cancers, particularly breast cancer and melanoma, to determine if the cancer has spread. By knowing which lymph nodes are most likely to contain cancer cells, surgeons can selectively remove and biopsy these nodes, potentially avoiding the need for more extensive lymph node dissection.

Lymphoscintigraphy can also be used to diagnose and evaluate lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid. By mapping the lymphatic drainage, doctors can pinpoint the site of the blockage or damage contributing to the lymphedema. The procedure is generally safe, with minimal side effects, and provides valuable information for diagnosis, treatment planning, and prognosis.