On an axial CT scan of the neck at the level of C6, a hyperdense round structure is noted lateral to the internal jugular vein and posterolateral to the common carotid artery. This most likely represents:
- A Sympathetic chain ganglion ✓
- B Vagus nerve
- C Phrenic nerve
- D Ansa cervicalis root
Correct answer: A. Sympathetic chain ganglion
Explanation
On axial neck CT, the sympathetic chain (superior/middle cervical ganglia) lies posterior to the carotid sheath, between the carotid artery and the longus colli/capitis muscles; it can appear as a small nodular density. The vagus nerve travels within the carotid sheath between IJV and CCA. The phrenic nerve descends anterior to scalenus anterior, well lateral to the carotid sheath. The ansa cervicalis is anteromedial in the neck.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.