Carcinoma of the upper outer quadrant of the breast primarily drains to which group of axillary lymph nodes, and at which lymph node level (Berg's classification)?

• A Anterior (pectoral) group; Level I ✓
• B Central axillary group; Level II
• C Apical (subclavian) group; Level III
• D Posterior (subscapular) group; Level I

Explanation

The primary lymphatic drainage of the entire breast is to the axillary nodes, and the upper outer quadrant specifically drains first to the anterior (pectoral) group situated along the lateral thoracic vessels — these are Berg's Level I nodes (lateral to the lateral border of pectoralis minor). From Level I, lymph flows to Level II (central, interpectoral, and posterior groups) and then Level III (apical/subclavian group). The sentinel node for breast carcinoma is most commonly found in the anterior pectoral group at Level I. The posterior group drains the subscapular region and back of the arm.

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

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.