Virchow node

Virchow's node

Lymph node regions, with Virchow's node located in the supraclavicular region
Latin	nodus lymphoideus supraclavicularis sinister
Precursor	Lymph node
System	Lymphatic system

Virchow's node, also known as Troisier's sign, is a left supraclavicular lymph node that can become enlarged due to metastatic cancer, particularly from the abdomen. It is named after the German pathologist Rudolf Virchow, who first described its clinical significance.

Anatomy

Virchow's node is located in the left supraclavicular fossa, which is the area just above the clavicle (collarbone) near the base of the neck. It is part of the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining lymph fluid from tissues and returning it to the bloodstream. The left supraclavicular lymph nodes receive lymphatic drainage from the thoracic duct, which collects lymph from the abdomen and lower body.

Clinical Significance

The enlargement of Virchow's node is often associated with metastatic cancer, particularly from the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastric cancer. This is because the thoracic duct drains lymph from the abdominal cavity, and cancer cells can spread through the lymphatic system to distant sites. The presence of an enlarged Virchow's node is sometimes referred to as "Troisier's sign," named after the French physician Charles Emile Troisier, who noted its association with abdominal malignancies.

Diagnosis

The detection of an enlarged Virchow's node is typically done through physical examination. A physician may palpate the supraclavicular area to check for any abnormal swelling or masses. If an enlarged node is found, further diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (e.g., CT scan, ultrasound) or a biopsy may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Associated Conditions

• Gastric cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Lung cancer
• Lymphoma

History

Rudolf Virchow first described the clinical importance of the left supraclavicular lymph node in the 19th century. He noted that its enlargement could be an indicator of metastatic cancer, particularly from the abdominal organs. Charles Emile Troisier later expanded on this observation, leading to the eponym "Troisier's sign."

Also see

• Lymphatic system
• Lymph node
• Metastasis
• Gastric cancer
• Rudolf Virchow