Quick Facts
Location: Between the xiphoid process of sternum and pericardium.
Drainage: Pericardium, respiratory diaphragm, diaphragmatic pleura, anterior upper section of liver, upper part of rectus abdominis muscle.
Direction of Flow: Parasternal lymph nodes > Bronchomediastinal trunk > Thoracic duct.
Description: (Location & Drainage)
The anterior group of superior diaphragmatic lymph nodes consists of about two or three nodes found posterior to the xiphoid process of the sternum. One or two additional nodes may be located laterally near the junction of the seventh rib and its corresponding costal cartilage.
These nodes receive lymph from afferent vessels located along the anterior superior surface of the diaphragm, as well as the inferior intercostal spaces, anterior upper surface of the liver, the superior part of the rectus abdominis muscle, and from the posteriorly located pericardium.
The anterior group of superior diaphragmatic lymph nodes send efferent vessels to the parasternal lymph nodes and lymph is eventually drained into the thoracic duct (left) or right lymphatic duct.
