lymphatics of lung (anatomy)
Last reviewed 01/2018
There are lymphatic channels throughout the lung substance but they converge on two sets of plexuses:
- superficial lymph plexuses
- deep lymph plexuses
Both systems drain sequentially to a chain of nodes passing from:
- the convergence of vessels near the hilum of each lung: the pulmonary or bronchopulmonary nodes
- to the region of the trachea: tracheobronchial nodes
- superiorly to the mediastinum: the bronchomediastinal trunk
- merge with junction of subclavian and internal jugular vein or thoracic duct
There are a few anomalies to this system; see submenu.