Lymphatic drainage
Remember the basics
- superficial lymphatic vessels drain the skin and follow venous drainage
- superficial lymphatic vessels + drainage of internal organs → deep lymphatic vessels that follow the arteries
- → lymph nodes → lymph trunks which unite to form either the right lymphatic duct or the thoracic duct
- right lymphatic duct drains the right side of the head and right arm
- thoracic duct drains everything else
- both lymph ducts drain into the venous system
| Primary lymph node drainage site | Area |
|---|---|
| Superficial inguinal lymph nodes | Anal canal below pectinate line Perineum Skin of the thigh Penis Scrotum Vagina |
| Deep inguinal lymph nodes | Glans penis |
| Para-aortic lymph nodes | Testes, ovaries Kidney Adrenal gland |
| Axillary lymph nodes | Lateral breast Upper limb |
| Internal iliac lymph nodes | Anal canal above pectinate line Lower part of rectum Pelvic structures, including cervix and inferior part of uterus |
| Superior mesenteric lymph nodes | Duodenum Jejunum |
| Inferior mesenteric lymph nodes | Descending colon Sigmoid colon Upper part of rectum |
| Coeliac lymph nodes | Stomach |