Where is the supraclavicular lymph node located?

• A. Superficial to the sternocleidomastoid muscle
• B. Deep in the angle formed by the clavicle and sternocleidomastoid muscle
• C. At the angle of the mandible
• D. Deep to the trapezius

Answer: (B)

The supraclavicular lymph nodes sit in the supraclavicular fossa, just above the clavicle, deep to the lower part of the sternocleidomastoid muscle where the clavicle and the SCM form an angle. This position places them behind (deep to) the SCM at the junction of the clavicle and sternocleidomastoid, not superficial to the muscle or at the jawline. They are distinct from submandibular nodes near the angle of the mandible or from nodes deep to trapezius or along the superficial neck. Enlargement here can reflect drainage from the thorax or abdomen, and the left supraclavicular node is classically associated with abdominal malignancies (Virchow’s node).