Jugulodigastric Lymph Node

nodus lymphoideus jugulodigastricus

The jugulodigastric node is a prominent upper deep cervical node lying where the posterior belly of the digastric crosses the internal jugular vein, just below and behind the angle of the jaw. It is often called the tonsillar node because it is the main node draining the palatine tonsil.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

Location	Upper deep cervical chain (level II), below the angle of the mandible where the posterior belly of digastric crosses the internal jugular vein
Receives lymph from	Palatine tonsil Posterior part of the tongue and tongue base Oropharynx Submandibular lymph nodes
Lymphatic drainage	Lower deep cervical lymph nodes Jugular lymphatic trunk

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Filters lymph from the tonsil and back of the tongue.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

This is the node most often felt to be swollen and tender in tonsillitis, presenting as a lump below the angle of the mandible. It is also a frequent first site of spread for cancers of the tonsil, tongue base and oropharynx, including HPV-related cancers, which can present as a cystic neck lump in a younger adult.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Tonsillar Lymphadenitis

Painful enlargement of the jugulodigastric node in tonsillitis and pharyngitis.

Oropharyngeal Cancer Metastasis

Spread of tonsil or tongue base carcinoma to this node, often the presenting sign.

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