Breast and Axilla

Question 1

Explain the functional gross anatomy of the breast and relate to clinically relevant situations

Answer 1

• Retromammary space = loose aureola tissue separates breast from pectorails major muscle
• Axillary tail = extension breast tissue
• Suspensory retinaculum (Coopers ligaments) = connective tissue in breast that helps maintain structural integrity.
• Anteiror border= pectoralis major and minor
• Medial border = serratus anterior and thoracic wall
• Posterior border - scapularis, teres major, latissimus dorsi
• lateral border = intertubercular sulcus.

Question 2

Explain the clinical relevance of the axilla and its contents

Question 3

Describe the lymphatic drainage of the breast & axilla

Answer 3

• Apical nodes = drain into subclavian trunks which enter jugular subclavian venous confluence or join common lymphatic duct or go into deeper lover cervical nodes
• Parasternal nodes = Cancer cells can cross over sternum and metastasize to other breast

25% to parasternal and abdominal;

75% to axillary nodes

Question 4

Describe Lymphatic drainage of the body

Answer 4

• 3 components of Lymphatic system = Fluid (lymph), Lymphatic vessels and organs containing lymphoid tissue (lymph nodes, tonsils, spleen, thymus).
• Lymphatic vessels carry lymph away from tissues
• Lymphatic capillaries -> vessels -> trunks -> ducts
• Macrophages within lymph nodes where lymph is filtered before its returned to blood.

1. Collection of lymph
2. Lymph flow in lymphatic system (nodes to right lymphatic duct or thoracic duct)
3. Re-introduction into circulation: thoracic duct and RL duct drain lymph back into circulation at 90 degree junction between internal jugular vein and subclavian vein called left and right venous angle.

Lympatic system = Key player in immune response (Produces WBCs), returns lymph to blood and filters blood and lymph.