The upper outer quadrant of the breast is the most common site for carcinoma, and its lymph drains primarily to which nodal group?
- A Internal mammary (parasternal) nodes
- B Anterior axillary (pectoral) nodes — level I ✓
- C Apical (subclavian) axillary nodes — level III
- D Posterior intercostal nodes
Correct answer: B. Anterior axillary (pectoral) nodes — level I
Explanation
The upper outer quadrant of the breast (commonest site for carcinoma) drains primarily to anterior (pectoral) axillary lymph nodes (level I, lateral to pectoralis minor). From level I, lymph passes to level II (central, around pectoralis minor) and then level III (apical/subclavian). The internal mammary nodes receive drainage primarily from the medial quadrants and deep breast tissue. Axillary clearance targeting level I–II nodes is standard in breast cancer surgery.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.