Week 2 - The Axilla

Question 0

What structure(s) makes up the medial border of the axilla?

Answer 0

Serratus anterior

The thoracic wall, which comprises ribs 1 - 4 and the corresponding intercostal muscles

Question 1

What structures make up the inlet/apex of the axilla?

Answer 1

Lateral border of 1st rib
Superior border of scapula
Posterior border of clavicle

Question 2

What structure(s) make up the lateral border of the axilla?

Answer 2

The intertubercular sulcus of the humerus

Question 3

What structures make up the posterior border of the axilla?

Answer 3

Latissimus dorsi
Teres major
Subscapularis

Question 4

What structures make up the anterior wall of the axilla?

Answer 4

Pectoralis major
Pectoralis minor
Subclavius

Question 5

What structure makes up the base of the axilla?

Answer 5

The skin of the armpit

Question 6

What are the contents of the axilla?

Answer 6

"ABAMA" - 
Axillary artery
Brachial plexus
Axillary vein
Muscles - biceps brachii and coracobrachialis
Axillary lymph nodes

Question 7

Explain axillary clearance

Answer 7

Removal of the axillary lymph nodes. Done in breast cancer patients to prevent spread of cancer cells via lymphatic drainage.

Question 8

What could be a complication of axillary clearance?

Answer 8

Damage to the long thoracic nerve, and hence “winged scapula”

Question 9

What is lymphangitis?

Answer 9

Inflammation of the lymphatic vessels
Usually originates from an infection of the upper arm, but may also originate in the pectoral region or breast.
Causes axillary lymph nodes to enlarge and become tender.

Question 10

What can be a major complication of lymphangitis?

Answer 10

If the apical group of lymph nodes enlarge, they may obstruct the cephalic vein.