Articles

LYMPH FLOW AND PROTEIN IN THE NORMAL MALE LEG DURING LYING, GETTING UP, AND WALKING

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Abstract

Leg lymph protein concentration and output, lymph/serum total protein and albumin ratio and lymph flow/concentration relationship were studied in four normal men with limbs immobilized in the horizontal position over two 24-hour periods, followed by a day in the upright position. A high concentration of total protein and albumin and the L/S ratio and a high protein output were found with immobilization. Assumption of the upright position after 24 hours of horizontal rest was followed by a high lymph flow with high protein concentration. This effect suggested the accumulation of large amounts of protein in the lymph space during the preceding rest period. The failure of lymph protein concentration to fall and an insignificant decrease in L/S total protein ratio render it unlikely that a sudden rise in capillary filtration occurred. Moreover, an essentially unchanging total protein and albumin L/S ratio is evidence against a sudden increase in capillary permeability. Moreover, a continuous decrease in lymph protein concentration during the day in the upright position probably occurs when " new" capillary filtrate replaces the proteins accumulated in the lymph space during the periods in the horizontal position. There is no diurnal rhythm in lymph protein concentration. The fast and large lymph flow that develops after assumption of the upright position and the continuous protein wash-out with ambulation are protective safety factors against edema formation in the leg.

How to Cite:

Olszewski, W., Engeset, A. & Sokolowski, J., (1977) “LYMPH FLOW AND PROTEIN IN THE NORMAL MALE LEG DURING LYING, GETTING UP, AND WALKING”, Lymphology 10(3), 178-183.