Intraarterial infusion of autologous lymphocytes for the treatment of refractory lymphoedema. Preliminary report
Nagata, Y.; Murata, R.; Mitsumori, M.; Okajima, K.; Ishigaki, T.; Ohya, N.; Fujiwara, K.; Abe, M.; Kumada, K.
European Journal of Surgery 160(2): 105-109
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 1102-4151 PMID: 8193206 Document Number: 425144
Objective: To evaluate the results of the treatment of lymphoedema by intra-arterial infusion of autologous lymphocytes. Design: Open study. Setting: University Hospital. Subjects: 13 patients with refractory lymphoedema. Interventions: Lymphocytes were separated from the patient's own blood using a blood cell separator; about 100 cc of lymphocyte dominant blood separated from this blood was immediately infused into the proximal artery of the affected limb. Infusion was practiced once a week, and repeated 4 to 6 times. Main outcome measures: Change in size of the affected limb (defined as the difference between the affected limb and the normal limb after treatment), and softening of the edema (measured with a tension gauge). Results: In all 13 patients there was softening of the affected hard limb followed by a reduction in the size of the limb (mean 64%), and the ache and sensation of heat in the limb lessened. The reduction in size was maintained in 9 of the 13 patients for three months, despite returning to their normal activities. Conclusion: Intra-arterial infusion of autologous lymphocytes is a promising treatment for refractory lymphoedema.