Lymphatic spread of carcinoma of the cervix follows a predictable pathway. The first echelon of pelvic nodes receiving drainage from the cervix includes which group?

• A Common iliac nodes
• B Para-aortic nodes
• C Inguinal nodes
• D Obturator and parametrial nodes ✓

Explanation

Lymph from the cervix drains initially to the parametrial, paracervical, and obturator nodes, then progresses to internal and external iliac chains, common iliac nodes, and finally para-aortic nodes. Sentinel node studies consistently map the obturator basin as the earliest landing site, which is why it anchors SLN mapping algorithms. Common iliac and para-aortic nodes are second and third echelon, making options A and B later stations.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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