Submandibular Lymph Nodes

nodi lymphoidei submandibulares

The submandibular lymph nodes are three to six nodes lying under the jaw, alongside the submandibular gland and the facial vessels. They drain much of the face and the front of the mouth, making them one of the most frequently enlarged node groups in the neck (level IB).

Anatomical Data

Structure & Secretions

Location	Submandibular triangle, beneath the body of the mandible, on and around the submandibular gland near the facial artery and vein
Receives lymph from	Face (via facial nodes) including nose, cheek and upper lip Lateral lower lip Anterior nasal cavity Gums and teeth (except lower incisors) Anterior two-thirds of the tongue (lateral part) Floor of mouth Submandibular and sublingual glands Submental lymph nodes
Lymphatic drainage	Deep cervical lymph nodes (jugulodigastric and jugulo-omohyoid)

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Filter lymph from the face and anterior oral cavity before it reaches the deep cervical chain.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

These nodes swell with dental abscesses, gum infections, tonsillitis and facial skin infections. They are a key site for spread of oral cavity cancers, lip cancer and skin cancer of the mid face, and are removed in a neck dissection that includes level I. On examination they are felt by tilting the head down and pressing up under the jaw.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Submandibular Lymphadenitis

Tender enlarged nodes under the jaw secondary to dental, oral or facial infection.

Oral Cancer Metastasis

Spread of squamous cell carcinoma from the lip, tongue, floor of mouth or gums to the submandibular nodes.

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