The 'dangerous area' of the larynx — the subglottis — has specific lymphatic drainage characteristics. Which statement is MOST accurate regarding subglottic carcinoma?
- A Lymphatic drainage is to ipsilateral level II and III nodes only
- B Bilateral lymphatic drainage with spread to paratracheal and pretracheal nodes ✓
- C Subglottis has no lymphatic drainage, preventing nodal spread
- D Lymphatic drainage follows the same path as glottic carcinoma
Correct answer: B. Bilateral lymphatic drainage with spread to paratracheal and pretracheal nodes
Explanation
The subglottis has bilateral lymphatic drainage to paratracheal (level VI), pretracheal, and inferior deep cervical nodes — unlike the glottis, which has very sparse lymphatics. This bilateral drainage pattern means subglottic carcinoma presents with bilateral nodal disease more commonly. It also drains to mediastinal nodes, making it one of the reasons subglottic carcinoma has a worse prognosis and requires bilateral neck dissection.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.