Regional lymphatics

Question 1

Lymphatic System Overview

Answer 1

• Function: Separate vessel system from the cardiovascular system; integral to the immune system.
  o Detects and eliminates foreign substances.
  o Filters lymph and engulfs pathogens to prevent circulation of harmful substances.
• Exam Areas: Lymph nodes are accessible for examination in:
  1. Head and neck
  2. Arms
  3. Axillae
  4. Inguinal region

Question 2

Occipital

Answer 2

Base of the skull.

Question 3

Tonsillar

Answer 3

Under the angle of the mandible.

Question 4

Posterior cervical

Answer 4

Posterior triangle along the edge of the trapezius muscle.

Question 5

Posterior auricular

Answer 5

Superficial to the mastoid process.

Question 6

Supraclavicular

Answer 6

Just above and behind the clavicle at the sternomastoid.

Question 7

Submandibular

Answer 7

Halfway between the angle and tip of the mandible.

Question 8

Superficial cervical

Answer 8

Overlying the sternomastoid muscle.

Question 9

Preauricular

Answer 9

In front of the ear.

Question 10

Submental

Answer 10

Midline, behind the tip of the mandible.

Question 11

Deep cervical

Answer 11

Deep under the sternomastoid muscle.

Question 12

Clinical Importance of Lymphatics

Answer 12

• Immune Function: Nodes act as entry points for detecting pathogens in areas like the nose, sinuses, and mouth.
• Lymphatic Drainage:
  o Identifies infections, inflammation, or malignancies.
  o Distinguishing superficial vs. deep nodes is essential for diagnosis.