Changes in the Lymphatic System on the MR Lymphangiography (MRL) In Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Recruiting
18 years - 100 years
All
Phase
1
30 participants needed
1 Location
Brief description of study
This is an observational
study that will compare the differences in lymphatic flow and anatomy of the central
lymphatic system on MRL in the liver cirrhosis patients with and without
ascites. In the second part of the study, MRL anatomical and flow changes in
the central lymphatic system of patients with liver cirrhosis will be compared
to normative data in healthy individuals.
In ascites group, the degree of anatomical and
lymphatic flow changes on MRL will be then correlated with volume of the
ascites.
Detailed description of study
Our group routinely
uses MR Lymphangiography (MRL) in a clinical setting to image the lymphatic
system in patients with plastic bronchitis, chylothorax and lymphangiomatosis (13). This new technique allowed imaging and
physiological evaluation of the central lymphatic system that includes cisterna
chyli and the thoracic duct. MRL not only
allowed for understanding of the pathophysiology of these disorders, but also
provided an excellent tool in planning of the interventional procedure.
The goal of this
study is to compare the changes in the central lymphatic system in liver
cirrhosis patients with and without the ascites.
We believe that the application of MRL in patient with liver cirrhosis
will be an effective means to assess flow velocity and volume in the thoracic
duct. It can further provide valuable insight into the pathophysiology of
changes in the lymphatic flow in the central lymphatic system in patient with
liver cirrhosis and ascites. We hope that our study will shed light on
pathophysiology of the ascites in liver cirrhosis.
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Healthy
-
Age: 18 years - 100 years
-
Gender: All
·
Participants
must be age 18 or older
·
Participants
have to be able to lie flat for at least one hour
·
Participants
must be able to understand English and be able to review and comprehend the
informed consent form independently or with the help of research staff
·
Participants
must sign the informed consent form
Normal participants:
·
Absence
of any signs or symptoms consistent with liver cirrhosis
·
Absence
of any regularly-prescribed medication
·
Participants
must be age 18 or older
·
Participants
have to be able to lie flat for at least one hour
Updated on
04 Aug 2024.
Study ID: 829482