lymphovascular invasion
Also written as: LVI — lymphovascular invasion
Microscopic finding of cancer cells within lymphatic or blood vessels, indicating increased metastatic potential.
Full Definition
Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) refers to the histopathologic identification of tumor cells within the lumina of lymphatic vessels or blood vessels adjacent to the primary tumor. This finding is a significant prognostic factor in urologic cancers, particularly bladder and kidney cancers, as it indicates the tumor's ability to access circulatory pathways for metastatic spread. LVI is routinely reported in pathology reports and influences staging, prognosis, and treatment decisions. The presence of LVI often upstages tumors and may indicate the need for more aggressive treatment approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as LVI in pathology reports. Note the single word 'lymphovascular' without hyphen.
In Context
- "Pathology revealed lymphovascular invasion in the specimen, prompting consideration of adjuvant chemotherapy." — Pathology report
- "The presence of lymphovascular invasion was associated with higher recurrence rates in this cohort." — Research publication