Lymphatic spread of carcinoma of the cervix follows the drainage of the parametrium. Which lymph node group is the FIRST echelon most commonly involved?

• A Inguinal nodes
• B Para-aortic nodes
• C Obturator and parametrial nodes ✓
• D Supraclavicular nodes via the thoracic duct

Explanation

Cervical lymphatics drain primarily through the parametrial, obturator, and internal and external iliac chains; the obturator group is the sentinel basin most frequently positive in early disease, followed sequentially by common iliac and then para-aortic nodes (option B represents second echelon spread and defines nodal stage IIIC2). Inguinal nodes (option A) receive vulval and lower vaginal lymphatics rather than cervical drainage, and supraclavicular involvement (option D) signals advanced haematogenous-stage dissemination.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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