Right & Left Supraclavicular Fossa Definition, Swelling, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

The supraclavicular fossa is a complex part of the anatomy of the upper neck. Its contents can be used to make differential diagnoses for problems in this area. Due to the supraclavicular fossa's intricate structure, a wide range of potential diagnoses can be made for the region's pathology, which might have neoplastic, congenital, or infectious roots. Neoplastic diseases can cause an enlargement of the supraclavicular lymph nodes. This can be caused by a primary neoplasm (like lymphoma) or by the metastatic spread of cancer from another part of the body. 

Breast cancer, lung cancer, reproductive system cancer, gastrointestinal system cancer, and thyroid cancer are some of the main tumors that have the potential to spread to this region. FNA is a technique that can be utilized to determine which neoplasm is the primary one. It is important to highlight that Virchow's node, which is an enlarged node on the left side of the supraclavicular fossa, can be an indicator of progressive gastrointestinal cancer.  According to the findings of one study, a malignant process was discovered to be the cause of the majority of supraclavicular masses that were biopsied using FNA.

Supraclavicular Fossa Definition

Supraclavicular Fossa can be defined as a palpable subcutaneous depression beginning at the medial attachment of the sternal head of the sternocleidomastoid muscle at the base of the neck and extending laterally to the medial edge of the deltoid muscle.

Right & Left Supraclavicular Fossa

The left & right supraclavicular lymph nodes, which are part of the sublevel Va auxiliary nerve lymph node chains, are responsible for draining the neck. The majority of the structures that these nodes drain are located in the abdomen and thorax. To be more specific, the right supraclavicular lymph nodes are responsible for the drainage of the breast, lung, and upper esophagus, but the left supraclavicular nodes have widespread drainage areas and drain distal regions, such as the renal area, cervical area, testis, and pancreas through a variety of sophisticated lymphatic networks. Afterward, the lymph nodes located on the right side of the clavicle drain into the right lymphatic duct, while the lymph nodes located on the left side of the clavicle drain into the thoracic duct.

Supraclavicular Fossa Swelling Symptoms

Pain, tenderness, and a noticeable increase in size are all signs of supraclavicular fossa enlargement. In some circumstances, the swelling may make it difficult to breathe or swallow. It is critical to get in touch with a doctor for an assessment if you encounter any of these symptoms. Depending on the underlying reason, there are different ways to treat swelling in the supraclavicular fossa.

Supraclavicular Fossa Swelling Causes

The collection of lymphatic fluid in the supraclavicular fossa is a common cause of swelling in that location. A number of factors, including infection, surgery, and trauma, can contribute to this condition. A tumor or cyst can potentially enlarge the supraclavicular fossa. In some situations, the reason for supraclavicular fossa swelling is uncertain. Tenderness, discomfort, or increased temperature may be signs of swelling in the supraclavicular fossa. Red or swollen skin may also be seen. Home therapies like cold and elevation are frequently effective in treating supraclavicular fossa edema.

Supraclavicular Fossa Swelling Treatment

The underlying reason will usually determine how to treat swelling in the supraclavicular fossa. Infections can be treated with medication, drainage, or surgery. Immunotherapy and corticosteroids are all possible treatments for inflammation. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are all possible tumor treatments. Surgery or endovascular techniques may be used to treat aneurysms. The doctor will choose a specific course of treatment based on the circumstances of each patient.