Lymph from the testes drains to which lymph node group, explaining the metastatic pattern of testicular tumors?

• A Superficial inguinal nodes
• B External iliac nodes
• C Deep inguinal nodes along the femoral canal
• D Para-aortic (lumbar) nodes at the level of L1-L2 ✓

Explanation

The testis develops embryologically in the retroperitoneum at the level of L1-L2 and retains its blood supply and lymphatic drainage from that region — the testicular artery arises from the aorta at L1-L2 and lymphatics drain to para-aortic (lumbar) nodes at the same level. Testicular cancers therefore metastasise to para-aortic nodes, not inguinal nodes, unless the scrotal skin or epididymis is involved (which drains to inguinal nodes). This distinction is clinically important when planning radiotherapy fields.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.