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Deep Inguinal Lymph Nodes

nodi lymphoidei inguinales profundi

The deep inguinal lymph nodes are one to three nodes lying medial to the femoral vein, under the deep fascia of the thigh. The highest of them, in the femoral canal, is often called Cloquet node. They receive lymph from the superficial inguinal nodes and the deep tissues of the leg.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

Location	Deep to the fascia lata, medial to the femoral vein, from just below the saphenous opening up to the femoral canal
Receives lymph from	Superficial inguinal lymph nodes Deep tissues of the lower limb (via vessels along the femoral vessels) Popliteal lymph nodes Glans of the penis or clitoris
Lymphatic drainage	External iliac lymph nodes

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Filter deep lymph from the leg and lymph passed on from the superficial inguinal nodes.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

These nodes are removed along with the superficial group in a complete groin dissection for melanoma, vulval or penile cancer. Because they lie in the femoral canal region, an enlarged deep node can mimic a femoral hernia. They are rarely palpable on their own.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Deep Inguinal Metastasis

Spread of cancer from the superficial inguinal nodes or the glans of the penis or clitoris to the deep group.

Groin Lump Mimicking Femoral Hernia

An enlarged deep inguinal node in the femoral canal region that can be mistaken for a femoral hernia.

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