Lymphatics of the head and neck

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Lymphatic structures of the head and neck can generally be divided into two groups:

1. Superficial lymph nodes and vessels 
2. Deep lymph nodes and vessels

At the junction between the head and neck are a group of lymph nodes which constitute the pericervical lymphatic circle. These nodes receive lymph from superficial tissues of the head and drain to either the superficial or deep lymph nodes of the neck.

The lymph nodes of the neck can be divided into anterior and lateral groups. Receiving lymph from the thyroid gland, trachea, larynx and infrahyoid region of the neck are the superficial and deep anterior cervical lymph nodes. The superficial anterior cervical nodes are intercalated along the anterior jugular vein while the deep anterior cervical nodes are located along the larynx, thyroid gland and trachea. 

The superficial and deep lateral cervical lymph nodes are intercalated along the length of the internal and external jugular veins. They receive lymph from the head and neck either directly from the superficial vessels of the head or from the anterior cervical nodes. Efferent vessels from the lateral cervical nodes form right and left jugular trunks which empty into the collecting right lymphatic and thoracic ducts (left) at the jugulosubclavian junction. 

Explore the lymphatic structures of the head and neck in the galleries below.

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