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Home › Body Atlas › Glands & Lymphatics › Pectoral Axillary Lymph Nodes
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Pectoral Axillary Lymph Nodes

nodi lymphoidei axillares pectorales

The pectoral (anterior) axillary nodes are three to five nodes along the lower border of the pectoralis minor and the lateral thoracic vessels, on the medial wall of the axilla. They are the main collecting nodes for the breast.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

LocationMedial wall of the axilla along the inferior border of pectoralis minor and the lateral thoracic vessels (level I)
Receives lymph from
  • Most of the breast, especially the lateral quadrants
  • Anterior chest wall
  • Anterior abdominal wall above the umbilicus
Lymphatic drainage
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Filter lymph from the breast and anterior trunk wall.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

These nodes are commonly where sentinel nodes for breast cancer are found. They are felt by pressing against the anterior axillary fold and chest wall. Lateral breast tumours and the axillary tail of the breast drain readily to them.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Sentinel Node Metastasis

Breast cancer cells reaching the first draining node, often within the pectoral group.

Reactive Pectoral Lymphadenopathy

Enlargement from breast infection such as lactational mastitis or abscess.

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