Lymph nodes on back of neck diagram. Thoracic Lymph Nodes: Anatomy, Function, and Clinical Significance

20.12.202020.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are thoracic lymph nodes. How are thoracic lymph nodes classified. Where are thoracic lymph nodes located. What is the function of thoracic lymph nodes. How are thoracic lymph nodes used in diagnosis. What diseases can affect thoracic lymph nodes. How are thoracic lymph nodes examined.

Содержание

Understanding the Anatomy of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Thoracic lymph nodes play a crucial role in the body’s immune system and are strategically positioned throughout the chest cavity. These nodes are classified into two main categories:

Parietal lymph nodes: Located in the thoracic wall
Visceral lymph nodes: Associated with internal organs

This classification helps medical professionals better understand the lymphatic drainage patterns and potential pathways for disease spread within the thoracic region.

Subcategories of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

For diagnostic purposes, thoracic lymph nodes are further divided into several subcategories:

Lung lymph nodes: Found along the bronchi
Paratracheal lymph nodes: Located in the neck
Tracheobronchial lymph nodes: Situated at the junction where the trachea meets the bronchi
Posterior mediastinal lymph nodes: Positioned near the thoracic aorta
Chest wall thoracic lymph nodes: Receive drainage from various structures in the upper chest

Understanding these subcategories is essential for accurately identifying and assessing potential abnormalities in the lymphatic system.

The Function and Importance of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Thoracic lymph nodes serve multiple vital functions within the body’s immune and circulatory systems. Their primary roles include:

Filtering lymph fluid
Trapping harmful substances
Producing and storing immune cells
Facilitating the exchange of fluids between tissues and blood

These functions make thoracic lymph nodes crucial in maintaining overall health and fighting off infections and diseases.

Drainage Patterns of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Different groups of thoracic lymph nodes are responsible for draining specific areas and organs within the chest cavity:

Paratracheal and tracheobronchial lymph nodes: Drain the heart, lungs, bronchi, thoracic trachea, and other lymph nodes
Posterior mediastinal lymph nodes: Primarily drain into the thoracic duct
Chest wall thoracic lymph nodes: Receive drainage from the breasts, arms, pectoral muscles, and other upper chest structures

Understanding these drainage patterns is crucial for diagnosing and treating various thoracic conditions.

Clinical Significance of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Thoracic lymph nodes hold significant importance in clinical settings, particularly in the diagnosis and monitoring of various diseases. Their involvement in numerous pathological processes makes them valuable indicators of health status.

Diagnostic Value of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Changes in the size or number of thoracic lymph nodes can be indicative of several conditions:

Extrapulmonary diseases
Pulmonary diseases
Lymphomas
Metastatic cancers

Medical professionals rely on imaging techniques and biopsies to assess these changes and make accurate diagnoses.

Challenges in Examining Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Despite their clinical significance, thoracic lymph nodes present unique challenges in examination and diagnosis. The primary difficulty lies in their location within the chest cavity, which makes them not easily detectable through routine physical examinations.

Advanced Imaging Techniques for Thoracic Lymph Node Assessment

To overcome the challenges in examining thoracic lymph nodes, medical professionals employ various advanced imaging techniques:

Computed Tomography (CT) scans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans
Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)

These imaging modalities allow for detailed visualization of thoracic lymph nodes, enabling more accurate diagnosis and staging of diseases.

Diseases Affecting Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Thoracic lymph nodes can be affected by a wide range of diseases, both benign and malignant. Understanding these conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Benign Conditions Affecting Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Several non-cancerous conditions can cause changes in thoracic lymph nodes:

Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
Sarcoidosis
Reactive lymphadenopathy
Silicosis

These conditions often result in temporary enlargement of the lymph nodes, which typically resolves with appropriate treatment.

Malignant Conditions Affecting Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Cancerous conditions involving thoracic lymph nodes are of particular concern and require prompt diagnosis and treatment:

Lung cancer
Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s)
Metastatic breast cancer
Esophageal cancer

Early detection of these malignancies through thoracic lymph node assessment can significantly impact treatment outcomes and prognosis.

The Role of Thoracic Lymph Nodes in Cancer Staging

Thoracic lymph nodes play a crucial role in the staging of various cancers, particularly those originating in or spreading to the chest cavity. The involvement of these nodes can provide valuable information about the extent and progression of the disease.

TNM Staging System and Thoracic Lymph Nodes

The TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) staging system, widely used in cancer diagnosis, heavily relies on the assessment of lymph node involvement. For thoracic cancers:

N0: No regional lymph node metastasis
N1: Metastasis in ipsilateral peribronchial and/or hilar lymph nodes
N2: Metastasis in ipsilateral mediastinal and/or subcarinal lymph nodes
N3: Metastasis in contralateral mediastinal, contralateral hilar, ipsilateral or contralateral scalene, or supraclavicular lymph nodes

Accurate staging based on thoracic lymph node involvement is crucial for determining appropriate treatment strategies and predicting patient outcomes.

Innovations in Thoracic Lymph Node Research

The field of thoracic lymph node research is rapidly evolving, with new discoveries and technologies emerging to enhance our understanding and improve diagnostic and treatment approaches.

Molecular Profiling of Thoracic Lymph Nodes

Recent advancements in molecular biology have led to the development of sophisticated techniques for analyzing thoracic lymph nodes at the molecular level. These include:

Next-generation sequencing
Proteomics
Metabolomics

These techniques provide detailed information about the genetic and molecular characteristics of lymph node tissue, enabling more personalized and targeted treatment approaches.

Immunotherapy and Thoracic Lymph Nodes

The role of thoracic lymph nodes in immunotherapy, a promising approach for treating various cancers, is an area of active research. Scientists are investigating:

The interaction between immune cells in thoracic lymph nodes and cancer cells
The potential of lymph node-targeted immunotherapies
The use of thoracic lymph nodes as biomarkers for immunotherapy response

These studies aim to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy in treating thoracic malignancies and improve patient outcomes.

Future Directions in Thoracic Lymph Node Management

As our understanding of thoracic lymph nodes continues to grow, several promising areas of research and development are emerging:

Minimally Invasive Sampling Techniques

Researchers are working on developing less invasive methods for sampling thoracic lymph nodes, including:

Liquid biopsy techniques
Advanced imaging-guided needle biopsies
Novel endoscopic approaches

These techniques aim to reduce the need for more invasive surgical procedures while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.

Artificial Intelligence in Thoracic Lymph Node Analysis

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms in thoracic lymph node analysis is showing great promise. AI-powered tools are being developed to:

Enhance the accuracy of lymph node detection on imaging studies
Assist in the interpretation of biopsy results
Predict treatment outcomes based on lymph node characteristics

These advancements have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of thoracic lymph node assessment in clinical practice.

As research in this field progresses, our understanding of thoracic lymph nodes and their role in health and disease continues to expand. This knowledge will undoubtedly lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies, ultimately benefiting patients with thoracic conditions.

Thoracic Lymph Nodes Anatomy, Diagram & Function

Thoracic Lymph Nodes Anatomy, Diagram & Function | Body Maps

Health Conditions
- Featured
  - Breast Cancer
  - IBD
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  - Rheumatoid Arthritis
  - Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
  - Acid Reflux
  - ADHD
  - Allergies
  - Alzheimer’s & Dementia
  - Bipolar Disorder
  - Cancer
  - Crohn’s Disease
  - Chronic Pain
  - Cold & Flu
  - COPD
  - Depression
  - Fibromyalgia
  - Heart Disease
  - High Cholesterol
  - HIV
  - Hypertension
  - IPF
  - Osteoarthritis
  - Psoriasis
  - Skin Disorders and Care
  - STDs
Discover
- Wellness Topics
  - Nutrition
  - Fitness
  - Skin Care
  - Sexual Health
  - Women’s Health
  - Mental Well-Being
  - Sleep
- Product Reviews
  - Vitamins & Supplements
  - Sleep
  - Mental Health
  - Nutrition
  - At-Home Testing
  - CBD
  - Men’s Health
- Original Series
  - Fresh Food Fast
  - Diagnosis Diaries
  - You’re Not Alone
  - Present Tense
- Video Series
  - Youth in Focus
  - Healthy Harvest
  - No More Silence
  - Future of Health
Plan
- Health Challenges
  - Mindful Eating
  - Sugar Savvy
  - Move Your Body
  - Gut Health
  - Mood Foods
  - Align Your Spine
- Find Care
  - Primary Care
  - Mental Health
  - OB-GYN
  - Dermatologists
  - Neurologists
  - Cardiologists
  - Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
  - Weight Management
  - Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
  - Are You a Workaholic?
  - How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
  - Health News
  - Find a Diet
  - Find Healthy Snacks
  - Drugs A-Z
  - Health A-Z
Connect
- - Breast Cancer
  - Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  - Psoriatic Arthritis
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis
  - Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by the Healthline Medical Network — By The Healthline Editorial Team on July 6, 2020

Thoracic lymph nodes are separated into two types: parietal lymph nodes located in the thoracic wall, and visceral lymph nodes, which are associated with the internal organs. Due to their location, abnormalities of the lymph nodes in the thorax, or chest, are not easily detected. However, any changes in the size or amount of these lymph nodes could be indicative of several types of extrapulmonary or pulmonary diseases. For diagnostic purposes, lymph nodes of the thorax can be further divided into sub-categories. The lung lymph nodes can be found along the bronchi. The paratracheal and tracheobronchial groups of lymph nodes are located in the neck and also in the junction where the trachea meets the bronchi, respectively. These accept drainage from the heart, lungs, bronchi, and thoracic trachea as well as other lymph nodes. The posterior mediastinal group of lymph nodes, located near the thoracic aorta, is closely linked to the tracheobronchial group and primarily drains into the thoracic duct. The chest wall thoracic lymph nodes receive drainage from the breasts, arms, pectoral muscles, and other muscles and skin located in the upper section of the chest.

Last medically reviewed on July 6, 2020

Share this article

Medically reviewed by the Healthline Medical Network — By The Healthline Editorial Team on July 6, 2020

Cervical lymph nodes: anatomy, groups and drainage

Author:
Roberto Grujičić MD
•
Reviewer:
Dimitrios Mytilinaios MD, PhD

Last reviewed: December 05, 2022

Reading time: 3 minutes

Superficial anterior cervical lymph nodes

Nodi lymphoidei cervicales anteriores superficiales

1/7

Synonyms:
Nodi lymphatici cervicales anteriores superficiales, Lymphonodi cervicales anteriores superficiales

The cervical lymph nodes, commonly known as the lymph nodes of the neck, are a large group of lymph nodes that can be classified into several groups. These groups of nodes include:

The superficial anterior cervical lymph nodes that are situated adjacent to the anterior jugular vein. These nodes drain lymph from the infrahyoid region, isthmus of the thyroid gland, inferior larynx to the deep lateral cervical lymph nodes.

The deep anterior cervical lymph nodes that are situated mostly in the midline and can be divided into four groups of nodes including the prelaryngeal, thyroid, paratracheal and pretracheal nodes. They drain lymph from the larynx, trachea, and thyroid to the deep lateral cervical lymph nodes.

The superficial lateral cervical lymph nodes that are situated adjacent to the external jugular vein. They drain lymph from the parotid nodes to the supraclavicular nodes.

The deep lateral cervical lymph nodes that are situated adjacent to the internal jugular vein. They can be subdivided into superior and inferior groups. These nodes receive the majority of lymph from the head and neck region and drain to the jugular trunk.

The accessory lymph nodes that are the most lateral group of cervical nodes, located adjacent to the accessory nerve. These nodes drain lymph from the lateral neck, pharynx and shoulder regions and empty into the supraclavicular nodes.

The supraclavicular lymph nodes that are situated at the root of the neck. These nodes receive lymph from the deep lateral cervical lymphatic vessels and empty into the jugular trunk on each side.

The retropharyngeal lymph nodes that are situated posterior to the pharynx. These nodes receive afferents from the nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses, soft palate, palatine arch, outer and middle ear and drain into the superior and inferior deep lateral cervical lymph nodes of the neck.

In summary, all lymphatic vessels from the head and neck drain directly or indirectly into the deep cervical lymph nodes. Lymph from these deep nodes passes to the jugular lymphatic trunk, which joins the thoracic duct on the left side and the internal jugular vein or brachiocephalic vein on the right side.

Terminology	English: Cervical lymph nodes English synonym: Lymph nodes of the neck Latin: Nodi lymphoidei cervicales Latin synonyms: Nodi lymphatici cervicales, Lymphonodi cervicales
Main groups	Superficial anterior cervical lymph nodes Deep anterior cervical lymph nodes Superficial lateral cervical lymph nodes Deep lateral cervical lymph nodes Accessory lymph nodes Supraclavicular lymph nodes Retropharyngeal lymph nodes
Function	Lymph nodes of the neck filter and transport lymph from surrounding lymph nodes and viscera back into the bloodstream

Test your knowledge on the lymphatics of the head and neck with this quiz.

Learn all about the lymph nodes of the head and neck with the following study unit:

Lymphatics of the head and neck

Explore study unit

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.

Lambert SM. Shoulder girdle and arm. In: Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st ed. Elsevier; 2016. p. 834.

Richter E, Feyerabend T. Normal lymph node topography: CT atlas. Springer; 2004.

Iwanaga J, Lofton C, He P, Dumont AS, Tubbs RS. Lymphatic System of the Head and Neck. J. Craniofac. Surg. 2021;32(5):1901–5.

Kyriacou H, Khan YS. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Axillary Lymph Nodes. StatPearls. 2021;

Cervical lymph nodes: want to learn more about it?

Our engaging videos, interactive quizzes, in-depth articles and HD atlas are here to get you top results faster.

What do you prefer to learn with?

Videos
Quizzes
Both

“I would honestly say that Kenhub cut my study time in half.”
–
Read more.

Kim Bengochea, Regis University, Denver

Lymph nodes : normal anatomy

Quick access
Schematic drawings
Literature

Terminologia Anatomica: International Anatomical Terminology – FCAT Federative Committee On Anatomical Terminology, Federative Committee on Anatomical Terminology – Thieme, 1998 – ISBN 3131152516, 9783131152510
Selection and delineation of lymph node target volumes in head and neck conformal radiotherapy. Proposal for standardizing terminology and procedure based on the surgical experience. Grégoire V, Coche E, Cosnard G, Hamoir M, Reychler H. Radiother Oncol. 2000 Aug;56(2):135-50. Review.PMID: 10927132
CT-based definition of thoracic lymph node stations: an atlas from the University of Michigan.Chapet O, Kong FM, Quint LE, Chang AC, Ten Haken RK, Eisbruch A, Hayman JA.Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2005 Sep 1;63(1):170-8.
Definition of the supraclavicular and infraclavicular nodes: implications for three-dimensional CT-based conformal radiation therapy. Madu CN, Quint DJ, Normolle DP, Marsh RB, Wang EY, Pierce LJ. Radiology. 2001 Nov;221(2):333-9.
Standardizing Neck Dissection Terminology: Official Report of the Academy’s Committee for Head and Neck Surgery and Oncology
K. Thomas Robbins; Jesus E. Medina; Gregory T. Wolfe; Paul A. Levine; Roy B. Sessions; Charles W. Pruet
Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1991;117(6):601-605.

anatomical structures

DOWNLOAD APP

IMAIOS and certain third parties use cookies or similar technologies, in particular for audience measurement. Cookies allow us to analyze and store information such as your device characteristics and certain personal data (for example, IP addresses, navigation, usage and location data, unique identifiers). This data is processed for the following purposes: to analyze and improve the user experience and/or our content, products and services, to measure and analyze the audience, to interact with social networks, to display personalized content, to measure the performance and attractiveness of content. For more information, please see our privacy policy: privacy policy.

You can give, withdraw or withdraw your consent to data processing at any time using our cookie settings tool. If you do not agree to the use of these technologies, this will be regarded as a refusal of the legitimate interest storage of any cookies. To consent to the use of these technologies, click the “Accept all cookies” button.

Analytical cookies

These cookies are designed to measure the audience: site traffic statistics help improve the quality of its work.

Google Analytics

What to do if the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed

The enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, as a rule, occurs as a result of contact with bacteria and viruses. If the enlargement is caused by an infection, it is called lymphadenitis. Rarely, cancer can be the cause.

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in keeping our body alive and is a major component of our immunity. Lymph nodes can be felt in the neck, chin, armpits and groin. In some cases, no action is required for treatment and a warm compress is enough. Treatment depends on the cause.

Symptoms

The lymphatic system includes a network of organs and lymph nodes located throughout the body. Most of them are in the head and neck area. Swollen lymph nodes indicate that something is wrong in the body. The first signs are sensitivity, soreness and an increase in lymph nodes to the size of a bean and even more.

Depending on the cause of the appearance, the symptoms of the disease may be as follows:

Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other signs of an upper respiratory tract infection.
Swollen lymph nodes throughout the body may indicate HIV, mononucleosis, or immune disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Swollen limbs may indicate a blockage in the lymphatic system caused by tumors in the lymph nodes that are deep under the skin and cannot be felt.

When treatment of lymph nodes in the neck requires a visit to a doctor

Lymph nodes return to normal over time if the cause of the increase was an infection that could be treated. But there are a number of factors in which you should consult a doctor:

Swelling without apparent cause
Duration 2-4 weeks
Knots are difficult to feel and do not move when pressed
Associated with persistent fevers, night sweats and weight loss
Accompanied by sore throat and difficulty swallowing.

Why lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed – causes

A lymph node is a small, round or bean-shaped cluster of cells covered with a capsule of connective tissue. The cells are a combination of lymphocytes that produce protein particles that fight viruses and macrophages that break down harmful substances. Lymphocytes and macrophages filter the lymphatic fluid that flows throughout the body and protects us.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, each of which serves a specific area of the body. An increase in a specific area may suggest a cause. The most common is an infection, especially a viral one, such as a cold. But there are other types0019 lymphadenitis of the cervical lymph nodes , such as parasitic or bacterial, which can cause enlargement of the lymph nodes.

Common infections:

Measles
Ear infections
Infection of the tooth – abscess
Mononucleosis
Skin infections
HIV

Atypical infections:

Tuberculosis
Sexually transmitted (syphilis and others)
Toxoplasmosis
Cat scratch bacterial infection

Autoimmune diseases:

Lupus
Rheumatoid arthritis

Cancer:

Lymphoma
Leukemia
Other cancers that have spread to lymph nodes

Complications

If the cause is an infection and not properly treated, complications may occur.

Abscess formation. Localization of the accumulation of pus caused by infection. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, bacteria, and other harmful elements. If an abscess occurs, drainage or antibiotic treatment may be required. Significant damage can be done if vital organs are affected.

Bloodstream infection. Bacterial, can start anywhere in your body and progress to sepsis caused by significant blood poisoning. Sepsis can lead to multiple organ failure and death. Treatment includes hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.

Diagnosis

To diagnose an illness, your doctor may need to:

Medical history
Medical examination
Blood test
Chest x-ray and computed tomography
Lymph node biopsy (as a last resort).

Treatment of lymph nodes in the neck

If the cause is a virus, the lymph nodes in the neck will recover on their own after the infection itself is treated. But if this does not happen or there is another reason, the following treatment may be required:

Infection.