Translational lymphology and the FöldiKlinik

The opening of the new wing of the FöldiKlinik in Hinterzarten, Germany, in October 2004, afforded the opportunity to reflect on the recent advances in molecular lymphology and their potential impact on basic research and clinical lymphology. We are now in a position both to expand our delineation of the lymphatic "phenotype" (particularly through non-invasive, multimodal imaging) as well as pinpoint the lymphvascular genotype and its structural and functional expression in patients with lymphedema, lymphangiodysplasias, and other lymphatic system disease. New therapeutic approaches, in addition to current non-operative and operative options, are on the horizon, including gene therapy, lymphangioinhibitory and stimulatory drugs, stem cell therapy, and tissue engineering. As we translate these advances from bench to bedside and clinic, more than ever global collaborations and advanced communication technologies (e.g.,TeleLymphology based at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center) are needed to carry out optimal testing and evaluation of these alternatives for therapeutic benefit vs. risk and also to assure the widespread availability of effective modalities throughout the world community. The newly expanded FöldiKlinik will be a premier hub in this effort.