Inguinal Lymph Nodes

Inguinal lymph nodes are more commonly known as groin lymph nodes (glands). The biggest problem with swollen groin lymph nodes is that due to the location, both men and women (especially men) avoid having the lymph nodes checked. For many, the swelling will go away without treatment, but for serious conditions, it is important for prompt medical care. Inguinal lymph nodes are located where the upper leg and the lower pelvic area connect, along the crease. Inguinal lymph nodes can also be known as femoral lymph nodes. The lymph glands (nodes) are as small as a pea or sometimes as large as a small olive and are bean shaped. Lymphatic fluid is circulated through the body and passes through the hundreds of lymph nodes located throughout the body. The inguinal (groin) lymph nodes filter lymphatic fluid that drains the following: Feet Genitals Groin Legs The lymphatic (Lymph Node System) removes and filters debris from the body. The infection fighting white blood cells that are located in the lymph nodes are known as lymphocytes. The lymph nodes can become overloaded doing their job, this will cause the lymph glands and lymph gland groups to become enlarged and swollen in the groin area. There are two types of inguinal lymph nodes: 1) The superficial inguinal lymph nodes form a chain immediately below the inguinal ligament. They lie deep to Camper's fascia which overlies the femoral vessels at medial aspect of the thigh. They are found in the triangle bounded by the inguinal ligament superiorly, the border of the sartorius muscle laterally, and the adductor longusmuscle medially. (Femoral Triangle of Scarpa) There are approximately 10 superficial lymph nodes. The superficial nodes drain to the deep inguinal lymph nodes. 2) The deep inguinal lymph nodes are located medial to the femoral vein and under the cribriform fascia. There are approximately 3 to 5 deep nodes. The superior-most node is located under the inguinal ligament and is called Cloquet's node.

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