Alterations in splenic hilar lymphatics in patients with congestion of the spleen.

Abstract

SummaryThe number and content of dilated splenic hilar lymph vessels were examined in patients with and without congestion of the spleen. Sections from 10 patients without congestion showed no dilated lymph vessels. Sections from 7 patients with congestion all showed an increased number of dilated lymph vessels many of which contained red blood cells. One other patient who died after portal decompression demonstrated normal lymph vessels.The results indicate that splenic hilar lymphatics enlarge as a result of splenic congestion and reflect an increase in splenic lymph formation. Absence of red blood cells in splenic lymph vessels under normal circumstances and their appearance in congested states supports the view that the intermediate circulation of the spleen is normally closed and that in congested states may be open.