Lymphatic Distribution of Intravenous Radiographic Contrast Media

Distribution of sodium diatrizoate and methylglucamine diatrizoate compounds, in the systemic lymph and kidney lymphatics of the dog, was investigated following intravenous bolus injection. Doses of contrast media approximating those at urography in man were used. After direct cannulation of the cisterna chyli and the hilar and capsular renal lymphatics and following intravenous injection of I labeled contrast medium, samples were taken rapidly. Less than 2 minutes after the injection the compounds could be detected in all lymphatic compartments and peak concentrations occurred 3-5 minutes after injection. The small differences in the distribution of the contrast media investigated in the different lymphatic compartments, as a function of tubular activity, are discussed.