Lymphatics of the mediastinum

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The mediastinum is a space located in the middle of the thoracic cavity, between the two pleural cavities. It can be divided into two main divisions (superior and inferior) that contain many vital structures, such as the heart and great vessels. Like all organs, these structures need to be drained by components of the lymphatic system.

The mediastinum contains several aggregations of lymph nodes which can be broadly categorized into three groups: anterior, intermediate (tracheobronchial) and posterior. As with all lymph nodes in the body, these node groups are ultimately drained into large thoracic lymphatic vessels (thoracic duct/right lymphatic duct) which terminate at the junction of the subclavian and internal jugular veins.

Given their close proximity and common drainage pathways, the lymph nodes of the thoracic wall (a.k.a. parietal thoracic lymph nodes) will also be evaluated in this section..

If you want to explore the major lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes of the mediastinum, take a look at the video below!

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Browse atlas

Take a closer look at the lymph nodes and vessels of the mediastinum in the gallery below.

Summary