Prostaglandin (PG)I2 is the primary eicosanoid synthesized by human lymphatics and 8-epi-PGF2 alpha, an isoprostane formed during free radical catalyzed peroxidation, is the most potent stimulator of lymphatic contraction tested thus far. We now examine the respective concentrations in the lymphatic wall of both human and porcine lymphatics and lymph fluid using specific immunoassays. Although both compounds are detectable in the lymphatic wall and lymph fluid, PGI2- (via its main metabolite 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha) is greater in the lymphatic wall whereas 8-epi-PGF2 alpha dominates in lymph fluid. Because inflammation is associated with oxidative injury, which in turn stimulates release of isoprostane, eicosanoid derivatives may modulate lymphatic tone during acute tissue reaction.