Pathology in focus: Vascular transformation of lymph node sinuses

Vascular transformation of lymph node sinuses is an uncommon condition and only isolated cases have been reported. It is characterized by conversion of nodal sinuses into capillary-like channels, often accompanied by fibrosis. Venous or lymphatic obstruction is thought to be the underlying mechanism, and in most cases factors that may contribute to lymphovascular obstruction can be identified such as tumour in the vicinity, vascular thrombosis, heart failure, previous surgery or radiotherapy. Most cases involve abdominal lymph nodes, and head and neck involvement is rare. We present two cases of vascular transformation of lymph node sinuses presenting only as cervical lymphadenopathy, without an obvious cause of lymphovascular obstruction.