Hepatic Lymph Nodes

nodi lymphoidei hepatici

The hepatic lymph nodes lie along the hepatic artery and in the hepatoduodenal ligament, near the porta hepatis. They include the cystic node at the neck of the gallbladder and nodes around the common bile duct. They drain most of the liver, the gallbladder and the bile ducts.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

Location	Along the common hepatic and proper hepatic arteries, in the hepatoduodenal ligament and at the porta hepatis, including the cystic node at the gallbladder neck
Receives lymph from	Liver (most of its lymph) Gallbladder Bile ducts Parts of the stomach, duodenum and pancreas
Lymphatic drainage	Coeliac lymph nodes

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Filter lymph from the liver, gallbladder and biliary tree.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The cystic node (Calot node or node of Lund) is a surgical landmark in Calot's triangle during cholecystectomy and often enlarges with gallbladder inflammation. Enlarged nodes at the porta hepatis can compress the bile duct and cause jaundice. They are a route of spread for gallbladder, bile duct and liver cancers.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Porta Hepatis Lymphadenopathy

Enlarged nodes in the liver hilum from cancer, lymphoma or infection, which can obstruct the bile ducts.

Gallbladder Cancer Nodal Spread

Early spread of gallbladder carcinoma to the cystic and pericholedochal nodes.

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