A Review of the Lymphatic Drainage of the Head and Neck: Use in Evaluation of Potential Metastases

Abstract

Squamous-cell carcinomas differ in their ability to metastasize depending on their location and etiology. Since the majority of squamous-cell carcinomas occur on the head and neck, a thorough understanding of the lymphatic system in these areas is essential in the early detection and treatment of metastatic disease.

Neoplasms of the Conchal Bowl: Treatment with Mohs Micrographic Surgery

“…Byers et al recommend neck dissection only when clinically positive nodes are present 8 . Because the lymphatic drainage of the ear is complex, metastasis from otic tumors can be found in the parotid, periauricular, cervical, posterior cervical, and lower jugular lymph node complexes 29 . Kinney and Wood have pointed out the unreliable nature of the physical examination and CAT scan for determination of the extent of tumor growth and silent nodal metastasis 23 .…”