Lab 1 - Module 2: Axilla - Page 8 of 8

Axillary Lymph Nodes

Tap on image to enlarge

There are ~20-30 Axillary Lymph Nodes, organized into five principal groups. Those of the 3D model are not divided into the following groups, but you can get a sense of this anatomy from the image and 3D model. (We will explore the axillary lymph node groups in HSF 2B).

1. The pectoral (anterior) group of axillary lymph nodes receive lymph mainly from the anterior thoracic wall, including most of the breast. Efferent vessels pass mainly to the central nodes.

2. The lateral (humeral) group of axillary lymph nodes receive lymph from most of the upper limb. Efferents pass to the central nodes.

3. The subscapular (posterior) group of axillary lymph nodes receive lymph from the posterior thoracic wall and scapular region. Efferent vessels pass from these to the central nodes.

4. The central group of axillary lymph nodes receive lymph from the pectoral, lateral, and subscapular nodes. Efferent vessels from this group pass to the apical nodes.

5. The apical (infraclavicular/subclavian) group of axillary lymph nodes situated at the apex of the axilla, these nodes receive lymph from all other axillary groups. Efferent vessels from this group unite to form the subclavian lymphatic trunk. On the right, it typically joins the jugular and bronchomediastinal trunks to form the right lymphatic duct. On the left side, the subclavian lymphatic trunk typically drains into the thoracic duct.