Popliteal lymph nodes
The popliteal lymph nodes ( Nodi lymphoidei [Nll.] Poplitei or Lymphonodi [Lnn.] Poplitei ) are a collection of lymph nodes in the hollow of the knee in mammals . Comparatively anatomically, they are included in the popliteal lymphatic center ( Lymphocentrum popliteum ). In humans and pigs a distinction is made between two groups of lymph nodes, the superficial and the deep hollow of the knee. In other mammals only one of these groups is usually formed. The catchment area (tributary area) includes the leg below the knee.
The superficial poplitei superficiales ( Nll. Poplitei superficiales ) are located at the mouth of the small saphenous vein . Their tributary territory is the calf and the lateral foot. Predators usually have a single superficial lymph node in the hollow of the knee ( Ln. Popliteus superficialis ) that can be felt like in humans.
The deep popliteal lymph nodes ( Nll. Poplitei profundi ) are embedded in fat under the knee fascia on the popliteal vein . Their catchment area is the back of the lower leg. In ruminants and horses , only deep popliteal lymph nodes are found, which are located on the gastrocnemius muscle in the depths of the hollow of the knee. The deep popliteal lymph nodes are usually not palpable in living individuals.
literature
- Uwe Gille: Cardiovascular and immune system, Angiologia. In: F.-V. Salomon et al. (Ed.): Anatomy for veterinary medicine . 2nd Edition. Enke-Verlag, Stuttgart 2008, ISBN 978-3-8304-1075-1 , pp. 404-463.