Cervial lymphadenopathy from primary carcinoma of the prostate

Abstract

Three patients with prostate cancer and left cervical lymph node metastasis are presented. The three patients were evaluated and treated in the Urology Unit of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. An explanation for the predilection of prostate cancer metastasis for the left cervical lymph nodes is offered. It is thought that the lymphatic drainage of the prostate is ultimately via the cisterna chyli, then the thoracic duct which empties into the junction of the left subclavian vein and finally into the left jugular vein. Eddy currents at this entry may play a role. Increased awareness is necessary to spare patients with cervical or supraclavicular lymphadenopathy from prostate cancer unnecessary rigorous and expensive management when the diagnosis is erroneously made.

Global Journal of Mathematical Sciences Vol. 6 (1) 2007: pp. 13-16