Pathophysiology of pediatric lymphatic diseases and percutaneous lymphatic intervention

Abstract

Lymphatic diseases can be caused by various factors, with primary pathologies involving damage to the lymphatic vessels and disruption due to congestion or excessive lymph production. While imaging of the lymphatic system remains under development, recent advances allow for some evaluation of hepatic lymph flow. We treat pediatric patients using techniques such as lymphangiography, thoracic duct embolization, thoracic duct disruption, and intrahepatic lymphatic embolization to address conditions such as chylothorax, chylous ascites, plastic bronchitis, chylopericardium, and protein-losing enteropathy. This paper discusses the pathologies of lymphatic diseases based on actual cases, indicating areas of consensus and future challenges.