END 1 Lab 1: Pelvis and Perineum

Module 2 - Nerves, Vessels and Lymphatic Drainage: Page 7 of 7

Add the inguinal lymphatic nodes.

Superficial inguinal lymph nodes – drain the lower abdominal wall, perineum, external genitalia, and lower limb.

Deep inguinal lymph nodes – receive lymph from superficial inguinal nodes and deeper pelvic structures via the femoral canal.

Tap on image to enlarge

Add the abdominal lymph nodes.

Lumbar (para-aortic) nodes – receive lymph from the gonads, kidneys, adrenal glands, and posterior abdominal wall.

Common, external, and internal iliac nodes – drain the pelvis, including the bladder, rectum, uterus, prostate, and cervix.

	What are the clinical implications of lymphatic flow based on the figure above?
Lymphatic drainage from superficial structures (e.g., skin of perineum, external genitalia) flows to superficial inguinal nodes, while deep pelvic organs drain to iliac or para-aortic nodes. This distinction helps guide physical exam, biopsy sites, and imaging for metastases.Spread of cancer; infection.

	Since lymphatic drainage of the ovary (and testis) follow its blood supply, what is the implication for cancer metastasis from the gonads?
The gonadal vessels ascend with the gonadal lymphatics to the lumbar (para-aortic) lymph nodes, meaning ovarian and testicular cancers typically spread first to retroperitoneal nodes in the abdomen, not inguinal nodes or the pelvis.