The British journal of dermatology
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Angiogenesis is a recognized event in psoriasis. Previous ultrastructural studies have demonstrated lymphatic capillaries extending high into the dermal papillae. Using the novel method of fluorescence microlymphography which permits visualization of upper dermal initial lymphatics in vivo we tested the hypothesis that lymphangiogenesis exists within plaque psoriasis. ⋯ Stereology provided quantitative analysis of the lymphatic network visualized. Overall, there is a greater network of lymphatics in perilesional compared with lesional skin in patients with plaque psoriasis. This finding is at odds with the accepted view that the lymphatic dermal vessels are increased within the psoriatic plaque.