retropharyngeal lymph nodes
Deep cervical lymph nodes located in the retropharyngeal space between the pharynx and prevertebral fascia. First echelon drainage for nasopharyngeal and posterior pharyngeal wall tumors.
Full Definition
Retropharyngeal lymph nodes are a group of deep cervical lymph nodes situated in the retropharyngeal space, bounded anteriorly by the pharyngeal wall and posteriorly by the prevertebral fascia. These nodes, also known as Rouvière's nodes, represent the primary lymphatic drainage pathway for the nasopharynx, posterior and lateral pharyngeal walls, and posterior nasal cavity. In head and neck oncology, retropharyngeal lymph node involvement is particularly significant in nasopharyngeal carcinoma staging and treatment planning. These nodes are not accessible during standard neck dissection and require specific radiation therapy target volume delineation for adequate treatment coverage.
Usage
Usage note: Critical for radiation planning; not surgically accessible via standard neck dissection.
In Context
- "PET-CT demonstrated FDG-avid retropharyngeal lymph nodes consistent with nodal metastases from the nasopharyngeal primary." — Imaging report
- "The radiation treatment volume must include the retropharyngeal lymph node regions bilaterally." — Radiation planning note