Micro-macroscopic anatomy of the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes that form the parietal lymphatic pathways of the human thoracic cavity

Abstract

Introduction: Many pathological processes such as infections, intoxications, and malignant tumors were spread through the lymphatic vessels of the thoracic cavity. In the present study, we investigated the anatomy of the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes of the thoracic cavity in humans.
 Materials and methods: The examination was performed on 60 cadavers of fetuses (25), newborn children (14), children (11), and adults (10). Lymphatic vessels of the rib periosteum, costovertebral, costotransverse, and sternocostal joints, as well as parietal lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes of the thoracic cavity were studied. A comparative study of arterial, venous, and lymphatic vessels was carried out.
 Results: The parietal lymph nodes of the thoracic cavity include parasternal (localized along the course of the thoracic arteries and veins), paramammary (located near the lateral edge of the pectoralis major muscle), intercostal, paravertebral, and upper diaphragm. The efferent lymphatic vessels of the periosteum and perichondrium of the first three ribs go to the intercostal lymph nodes, to the parasternal, paravertebral and diaphragmatic lymph nodes.
 Conclusion: The presence of intercalated lymph nodes on the thoracic cavity is characteristic of the entire lymphatic system and should be considered in the pathology of the thoracic cavity.