Which lymph node lies superficial to the mastoid process?

Which lymph node lies superficial to the mastoid process?

• A. Preauricular lymph node
• B. Posterior auricular lymph node
• C. Occipital lymph node
• D. Supraclavicular lymph node

Answer: (B)

Lymph nodes around the ear region are named by their position relative to the ear. The one that sits just behind the ear, over the mastoid part of the temporal bone, lies superficial to the mastoid process. This posterior auricular node collects drainage from the scalp and external ear regions behind and around the ear, making its location directly superficial to the mastoid process. In contrast, preauricular nodes are in front of the ear, the occipital nodes are at the back of the skull near the occipital bone, and supraclavicular nodes are down near the clavicle.

Lymph nodes around the ear region are named by their position relative to the ear. The one that sits just behind the ear, over the mastoid part of the temporal bone, lies superficial to the mastoid process. This posterior auricular node collects drainage from the scalp and external ear regions behind and around the ear, making its location directly superficial to the mastoid process.

In contrast, preauricular nodes are in front of the ear, the occipital nodes are at the back of the skull near the occipital bone, and supraclavicular nodes are down near the clavicle.