Imaging technology of the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system plays critical roles in tissue fluid homeostasis and immunity and has been implicated in the development of many different pathologies, ranging from lymphedema, the spread of cancer to chronic inflam-mation. In this review, we first summarize the state-of-the-art of lymphatic imaging in the clinic and the advantages and disadvantages of these existing techniques. We then detail recent progress on imaging technology, including advancements in tracer design and injection methods, that have allowed visualization of lymphatic vessels with excellent spatial and temporal resolution in preclinical models. Finally, we describe the different approaches to quantifying lymphatic function that are being developed and discuss some emerging topics for lymphatic imaging in the clinic. Continued advancements in lymphatic imaging technology will be critical for the optimization of diagnostic methods for lymphatic disorders and the evaluation of novel therapies targeting the lymphatic system. (c) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Automated summary

The lymphatic system plays critical roles in tissue fluid homeostasis and immunity, and is implicated in the development of various pathologies. Advancements in lymphatic imaging technology are crucial for optimizing diagnostic methods for lymphatic disorders and evaluating new therapies targeting the lymphatic system.