Lymph-vascular invasion

Lymph-vascular invasion (LVI) is a medical term that refers to the presence of cancer cells in the blood vessels or the lymphatic system. It is a significant prognostic factor in many types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer.

Definition

Lymph-vascular invasion is defined as the presence of cancer cells within the lumen of a blood vessel or lymphatic channel, as identified by a pathologist under a microscope. This is often an indication that the cancer has the potential to spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.

Clinical Significance

The presence of LVI is often associated with a higher risk of lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. It is therefore considered a poor prognostic factor in many types of cancer. In some cases, the presence of LVI may influence treatment decisions, such as the need for chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Detection

LVI is typically detected through the examination of tissue samples obtained during biopsy or surgery. The tissue is stained and examined under a microscope by a pathologist. The presence of cancer cells within the blood vessels or lymphatic channels is indicative of LVI.

Treatment

The treatment of cancers with LVI often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

Research

Research is ongoing to better understand the mechanisms of lymph-vascular invasion and to develop new treatments for cancers with LVI. This includes studies on the molecular and genetic changes that allow cancer cells to invade blood vessels and lymphatic channels, as well as clinical trials of new drugs and therapies.