Which lymph nodes drain the head and neck?

Which lymph nodes drain the head and neck?

• A. Axillary nodes
• B. Cervical nodes
• C. Inguinal nodes
• D. Popliteal nodes

Answer: (B)

Regional lymphatic drainage from the head and neck is carried to the cervical lymph nodes. These nodes, located along the neck and near the internal jugular vein, filter lymph from the scalp, face, oral cavity, and pharynx, serving as the first major immune surveillance sites before lymph returns to the bloodstream. In contrast, other node groups have different drainage territories: axillary nodes drain the upper limb and chest wall (including the breast), inguinal nodes drain the lower limbs and perineal region, and popliteal nodes drain the leg and foot.

Regional lymphatic drainage from the head and neck is carried to the cervical lymph nodes. These nodes, located along the neck and near the internal jugular vein, filter lymph from the scalp, face, oral cavity, and pharynx, serving as the first major immune surveillance sites before lymph returns to the bloodstream. In contrast, other node groups have different drainage territories: axillary nodes drain the upper limb and chest wall (including the breast), inguinal nodes drain the lower limbs and perineal region, and popliteal nodes drain the leg and foot.