Superficial cervical lymph nodes

The superficial cervical lymph nodes are a group of lymph nodes located along the external jugular vein on the surface of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. They primarily receive lymph from the superficial tissues of the head and neck and drain into the deep cervical lymph nodes. Although fewer in number than the deep group, they are important in the initial filtration of lymph from the external surfaces.

Location

These nodes are situated along the course of the external jugular vein, superficial to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Some may also be found near the anterior jugular vein, closer to the midline. They lie just beneath the platysma and are part of the superficial fascia of the neck.

Classification

The superficial cervical lymph nodes are often grouped into:

Anterior Superficial Cervical Nodes

• Located along the anterior jugular vein
• Drain superficial structures in the anterior neck, including the skin and infrahyoid region

Lateral Superficial Cervical Nodes

• Located along the external jugular vein
• Receive lymph from the auricle, lateral scalp, and superficial neck structures

Afferent Drainage

The superficial cervical nodes receive lymph from:

• Superficial structures of the scalp, face, and neck
• Auricle and parotid region
• Submandibular and occipital lymph nodes
• Lower part of the external ear

Efferent Drainage

Efferent vessels from the superficial cervical lymph nodes drain into the deep cervical lymph nodes, particularly the inferior group, along the internal jugular vein.

Function

These nodes play a role in filtering lymph from the superficial tissues of the head and neck, particularly the skin and subcutaneous regions. They act as the first line of immune defense for external infections or injuries.

Relations

• Medial: Sternocleidomastoid muscle (for lateral nodes)
• Lateral: Platysma and skin of the neck
• Inferior: Drain into lower deep cervical nodes

Clinical Relevance

• Lymphadenopathy: Enlargement may indicate localized infections (e.g., scalp or ear infections), systemic illness, or malignancy
• Scalp conditions: Infections or inflammation of the posterior scalp or auricle may cause these nodes to swell
• Palpation: Due to their superficial location, enlarged nodes are often easily palpable during physical examination