Occipital lymph nodes


The occipital lymph nodes are a group of 1-3 superficial lymph nodes of the head situated in the occipital region that drain part of the scalp of the occiput.
They are situated at the margin of the trapezius and resting on the insertion of the semispinalis capitis.

Territory

Afferents

Afferents of occipital lymph nodes contribute to the drainage of the occipital region of the scalp.

Efferents

Their efferents in turn drain into the superior deep cervical glands.

Clinical examination

During physical examination, these nodes are examined by having the patient bend their head forward and bilaterally palpating the base of the side of the head.

Etymology

The word occipital comes from the .