Thrombus formation in lymphatic vessels associated with Brugia malayi.

Lymph thrombi within affected afferent lymphatic vessels of cats infected with Brugia malayi were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Thrombi were made up of alternating layers of fibrin strands and cells, many of which were intact erythrocytes. The endothelial lining of the vessel wall near the site of thrombus attachment showed transition from normal endothelial cells to a flattened syncytium in which individual endothelial cells could not be distinguished. Imprints of cells, including erythrocytes, were visible in the vessel wall at the point of thrombus attachment. Damage to the endothelial lining may be a factor in the initiation of thrombus formation.