Journal of Clinical and Cellular Immunology
Open Access

Abstract

Lymphedema and Lymphatic-dependent Immune Dysfunction

Wen Tian, Xinguo Jiang, Jeanna Kim, Adrian Begaye, Mark R. Nicolls and Stanley G. Rockson

The lymphatic system is increasingly appreciated as an essential circulatory system whose dysfunction is associated with many immune dysregulated conditions. The lymphatics unquestionably fulfill a vital role in immune surveillance. Lymphatic insufficiency, as a consequence of developmental lymphatic vascular defects, injury, obstruction, or infection, results in the accumulation of protein-rich interstitial fluid in affected tissues-a disease known as lymphedema. At later states of this disease, the condition is often characterized by inflammation, recurrent infection, fat deposition and fibrosis. Although relatively under-investigated, mechanisms associated with the development of lymphedematous pathophysiology and immune dysfunction are starting to be elucidated. In this article, we will discuss the most recent developments in lymphedema biology and the ways in which lymphatic insufficiency contributes to various immune dysregulated conditions.