MR‐lymphangiography identifies lymphatic pathologies in patients with idiopathic recurrent cervical swelling

摘要: Background Idiopathic recurrent cervical swelling may be caused by lymphatic abnormalities. Methods Ten patients (9 females, mean age 51.2 ± 7) with idiopathic recurrent cervical swelling underwent MR‐lymphangiography (MRL). MR‐lymphangiograms were evaluated regarding lymphatic anatomy and flow. Individualized treatment was recommended according to MRL‐findings. Results 8/10 patients presented with left‐sided, 2/10 with right‐sided swelling. Pathological lymph‐flow was identified in all cases: thoracic duct dilatation in patients with left‐sided and right lymphatic duct dilatation in right‐sided swelling, accessory thoracic lymphatics in 7/10 and reflux in 8/10 cases. In two cases, a lymphatic thrombus was identified. After treatment, symptoms resolved completely in 6/10 cases and partially in 1/10 cases. The remaining three patients have intermittent swellings but have no treatment wish …