Intercostal lymph nodes

The intercostal lymph nodes (intercostal glands ) occupy the posterior parts of the intercostal spaces, in relation to the intercostal vessels.

They receive the deep lymphatics from the postero-lateral aspect of the chest; some of these vessels are interrupted by small lateral intercostal glands.


 * The efferents of the glands in the lower four or five spaces unite to form a trunk, which descends and opens either into the cisterna chyli or into the commencement of the thoracic duct.


 * The efferents of the glands in the upper spaces of the left side end in the thoracic duct; those of the corresponding right spaces, in the right lymphatic duct.