subcarinal lymph nodes
Pronunciation: sub-cah-RYE-nal
Lymph nodes located beneath the carina, important staging structures in lung cancer that require careful assessment.
Full Definition
Subcarinal lymph nodes are located in the mediastinal region directly below the carina (the point where the trachea bifurcates into the main bronchi). These lymph nodes are designated as station 7 in the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) lymph node map. Subcarinal nodes are frequently involved in lung cancer metastasis and are accessible via various diagnostic approaches including EBUS, mediastinoscopy, and surgical exploration. Involvement of subcarinal nodes significantly impacts staging and treatment decisions. Their central location makes them a common site of metastatic spread from tumors in any lobe of either lung.
Usage
Usage note: Part of standardized lymph node staging system; station 7 designation is internationally recognized.
In Context
- "EBUS sampling of subcarinal lymph nodes revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma." — Pathology report
- "The subcarinal station showed uptake on PET scan, requiring tissue confirmation." — Imaging report