American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Where are Level 2 lymph nodes typically located?

1. Beneath the clavicle

2. Medial to the pectoralis minor

3. Above the pectoralis major

4. Behind the sternum

The correct answer is: Medial to the pectoralis minor

Level 2 lymph nodes are located medial to the pectoralis minor muscle. This anatomical position is part of the axillary lymph node classification, where lymph nodes are categorized based on their location in relation to the pectoralis minor. Specifically, Level 2 nodes are situated directly behind and along the medial border of the pectoralis minor, making them crucial for assessing the spread of breast cancer and other conditions. The other answer choices refer to different anatomical locations not applicable to Level 2 lymph nodes. For example, nodes beneath the clavicle are typically classified as Level 3, while those above the pectoralis major and behind the sternum fall under different anatomical groupings entirely. Understanding the classification system of lymph nodes, especially in relation to pectoral muscles, is vital for surgical procedures and oncological assessments.