Fine structure of human thoracic duct as revealed by light and scanning electron microscopy

Abstract

Little information has been available regarding microanatomy of human thoracic duct in spite of the importance for an understanding of pathophysiology in clinical medicine. The present study demonstrated a fine structure of human thoracic duct system by light and scanning electron microscopy. A number of longitudinal or spiral ridges and grooves were formed on luminal surfaces of the lymphangia and lymph sac, it likely facilitating fluent lymph flow. The endothelial cells displayed various cell shapes in compliance with their distributed regions. The lymph sac joining large vein composed a peculiar multiple valve structure presumably ensuring lymph storage and prevention of lymph backflow. The longitudinal muscle sheet in the tunica intima and circular muscle bundles in the tunica media constructed an integrated power unit probably eliciting spontaneous lymph propulsion. Furthermore, the thoracic duct was richly supplied with blood vessels not only in the tunica externa, but also just beneath the endothelium. The present findings provide a morphological basis for investigation of human thoracic duct in basic and clinical medicine.