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Which lymph nodes drain the lower arm and hand?

A) Cervical lymph nodes
B) Axillary lymph nodes
C) Popliteal lymph nodes
D) Epitrochlear lymph nodes

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The lymph nodes that drain the lower arm and hand are the Axillary lymph nodes. These are connected to the lymphatic system of the upper limbs, which directs lymph into the lymphatic trunks, eventually draining into the subclavian veins via the thoracic duct or the right lymphatic duct, depending on the side of the body.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lymph nodes responsible for draining the lower arm and hand are the Axillary lymph nodes. These nodes are part of the superficial and deep lymphatic systems of the upper limbs. The lymph from the upper limbs, including the lower arm and hand, flow into the radial vein, ulnar veins, and the median antebrachial vein. From these veins, the lymph is eventually directed through larger lymphatic vessels known as lymphatic trunks, and on the left side of the body, it drains into the larger thoracic duct, which then drains into the left subclavian vein. On the right side, the lymph flows into the right lymphatic duct, draining into the right subclavian vein. It's important to note that other lymph nodes like the epitrochlear lymph nodes located above the elbow may also play a role in draining lymph from the lower arm and hand, but the primary drainage is handled by the axillary lymph nodes.

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