ABSTRACT
Improved methods for investigating the lymphatic system and interstitial space in man extend our knowledge of the mechanisms regulating tissue transport of water, solutes, and proteins; local metabolic processes; and migration and homing of cells in nonlymphoid tissues. In man, lymph is more convenient to sample and study than interstitial fluid because the lymphatics are easily accessible and large volumes of lymph are available. There is, however, always a question whether lymph is representative of the interstitial fluid, and if so, to what extent. The lymphatic trunks of the leg are divided into a deep and a superficial system. The latter consists of the medial and lateral groups. In the lower leg, the medial superficial group is composed of two to three collecting trunks. The digital lymphatic plexuses are drained by vessels that run along the outer margin of fingers toward the web, where they are joined by vessels from distal palm and pass toward the dorsal surface of hand.
