Supraclavicular lymph node

Supraclavicular lymph nodes are lymph nodes located superior to the clavicle, palpable in the supraclavicular fossa. The left supraclavicular lymph node receives lymph from a part of the thoracic cavity and abdomen and is clinically significant because it is where the abdomen and thorax drain. This is known as Virchow's node.

Anatomy

The supraclavicular lymph nodes, on either side of the body, are located in the hollow superior to the clavicle, close to where it meets the sternum. They drain the corresponding half of the thorax, the arm, and part of the abdominal cavity.

Clinical significance

Enlargement of the supraclavicular lymph nodes, known as lymphadenopathy, can be a symptom of a serious illness such as cancer. In particular, enlargement of the left supraclavicular lymph node (Virchow's node) can be a sign of stomach cancer or another abdominal malignancy. This is known as Troisier's sign.

See also

• Lymphatic system
• Lymph node
• Virchow's node
• Troisier's sign

References

Supraclavicular lymph node Resources
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