Cancer Metastasis and the Lymphovascular System Basis for Rational Therapy [Hardcover]

This book details the anatomy and physiology of the lymphovascular system as well as describes the mechanisms of metastasis. It provides readers with an understanding of immune responses of draining lymph nodes against cancer. Coverage also explains the rationale of adopting molecular therapeutics against growth factor receptors, apoptotic factors, signaling pathways and angiogenesis.

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) procedures have opened a window of opportunity for the study of micrometastasis. In eighty percent (80%) of metastasis there lies an orderly pattern of progression via the lymphatic network, while 20% of the time systemic metastasis occurs, bypassing the lymphatic system. During the past two decades, significant progress has been achieved in understanding the anatomical, functional, cellular and molecular aspects of the lymphovascular system and the metastasis process.

? Molecular imaging advances help to localize early cancers more precisely.

? Current status of the immune responses in the draining lymph nodes against cancer is summarized.

? New paradigms of early cancer growth, proliferation, overcoming apoptosis are exploited in the development of anticancer treatment.

In this book, basic scientists and clinicians exchange ideas so that laboratory findings can be applied to clinical dilemmas, and clinical problems can be targeted for research in the laboratory.

Landmarks and Advances in Translational Lymphology.- Embryonic Development of the Lymphovascular System and Tumor Lymphangiogenesis.- Lymphatic Origin from Embryonic Stem Cells.- Lymphatic Markers, Tumour Lymphangiogenesis and Lymph Node Metastasis.- Anatomy of the Human Lymphatic System.- SPECTCT Fusion Imaging Radionuclide Lymphoscintigraphy: Potential for Limb Lymphedema Assessment and Sentinel Node Detection In Breast Cancer.- Sentinel Node Identification using Radionuclides in Melanoml³$