Abstract
1) For the purpose of exploration of the renal Lymphatics 49 rabbits were available either in the normal or in the hydronephrotic and pyelonephrotic states. The method employed consists of injection of SKY BLUE dye into either directly cortical subcapsular tissue or in the pelvic soft tissue with coincidental application of ligation of main lymphatic channels. Observation was continued from 12 hours to 40 days. Direct implantation of Proteus bacilli in appropriate amount was performed for producing pyelonephritis. Following conclusions can be drawn: a. Cortical lymphatics is observed subcapsular and periglomerular spaces with communication to the peritubular regions along the interlubular arteries in irregular arrangement. No positive finding is gained within the glomerulus. Emphasis is placed at the corticomedullary junction where dilated lymphatics filled with SKY BLUE are prominent. Small lymphatics running through the medulla is eminent along the tubules particulary along the vasa recta. Marked dilatation of lymphatics can be seen at the fornix closely attached the pelvic mucosa. b. The lymphatics show marked dilatation at the corticomedullary junction and the renal medulla lnspite of collaps of lymphatics in the cortex. The inflammatory infiltrate initiates at the fornix of the calyces extending through the medulla as well as almost simultaneus initiation at the subcapsular area. c. The renal lymphatics is thought to play an important role in the water reabsorption and reabsorption of some electrolytes, particulary in form of interstitial edema. d. The dilatation of the lymphatics at the hydronephrosis is considered mainly due to exaggarated pyelonephritic or tubulolymphatic blackflow which may in the normal state serve as a shunt for lymphdrainage. e. The inflammatory infiltrate of ascending pyelonphritis extends rather rapidly to the subcapsular legion of the renal cortex with gradual subsequent speading throughout.
