Topographic characteristics of the lymph nodes of the anterior mediastinum by postnatal ontogenesis stages in humans

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: In the diagnosis of diseases of the thoracic cavity, it’s important to assess the state of the mediastinal lymph nodes (LNs). In this study, we evaluated the detailed topographic characteristics of the anterior mediastinal LNs by postnatal ontogenesis stages in humans. Materials and methods: Topographic characteristics of the anterior mediastinal LNs were studied on 134 cadavers of different ages; causes of death were not associated with any diseases and/or damage to the thoracic cavity and/or lymphoproliferative disorders. Results: Anterior mediastinal LNs are a constant group of LNs. Out of all anterior mediastinal LNs the more frequently found groups are preaortic and prevascular LNs, rarer ones are LNs of the horizontal chain. LNs of the horizontal chain located on the brachiocephalic trunk were found more frequently in children compared to teens and adults. Conclusion: In the group of preaortic LNs constant LNs are those adjoined to the ligamentum arteriosum and ascending aortic arch; in a group of prevascular LNs adjoined to vena cava superior; in the group LNs of the horizontal chain located on the left brachiocephalic vein.