When examining the neck, which lymph nodes are commonly palpated?

During a neck examination, cervical lymph nodes are the most commonly palpated. The cervical lymph nodes are located in the neck region and are involved in draining lymphatic fluid from the head and neck. They play a critical role in immune response and can become enlarged in the presence of infections, malignancies, or other diseases.

Healthcare professionals routinely assess these nodes during physical examinations because their size, consistency, and tenderness can provide vital clues about underlying pathologies. Enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes may indicate infections such as mononucleosis or more serious conditions such as lymphoma or metastasis.

In contrast, the inguinal and axillary lymph nodes are located in the groin and armpit regions, respectively, and are typically examined in cases of suspected lower body or breast conditions. The supratrochlear lymph nodes, situated above the elbow, are less frequently examined during a routine neck assessment since they are not located in the neck region. Thus, while each set of lymph nodes serves an important purpose in the lymphatic system, cervical lymph nodes are specifically targeted during neck examinations for their relevance to common head and neck conditions.