Exam 35: Lymphatics and Spread of Dental Infection

When a throat infection begins,the first group of nodes to become involved is the retropharyngeal nodes because they are behind the throat wall.

The mandibular third molars drain into the upper deep cervical nodes.These nodes drain into the retropharyngeal nodes located behind the throat wall.

The distribution pattern of lymphatic vessels has been well determined by scientists.This information can be used as a diagnostic tool and as a means of slowing the spread of infection and cancer.

Each of the following nodes drains into the upper deep cervical nodes EXCEPT one.Which one is the EXCEPTION?

The maxillary premolars are drained by the submental nodes.

Lymphadenopathy cannot be diagnosed without a biopsy.

Lymph nodes fighting an infection become enlarged and tender because lymphocytes within the node have begun multiplying and combating infection.

A buccal abscess of a mandibular molar initially drains into the

Lymph nodes are grouped together into small clusters.The clusters are interconnected by connective tissue.

When blood plasma filtrate enters the lymphatic tubules,it is called lymphatic fluid.Lymphatic fluid empties into the venous system at the junction of the carotid veins.

All lymphatic vessels in the head and neck area ultimately drain into the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins.

Infections at the apices of teeth cause swelling either mesial or distal to the involved tooth.A swelling of apical origin occurring in the vestibule is sometimes called a gumboil.

Maxillary infections around the eye or cheek can spread to the lateral pharyngeal space.

Which cancerous structure would be MOST difficult to successfully treat?

Infections of mandibular premolars and anterior teeth spread into the sublingual space because the disease breaks out of bone below the mylohyoid line.

A swelling in the cheek is usually related to an infection in the maxillary canine.

Infections that reach the posterior mediastinum can be fatal.

Lymphatic fluid empties into which system?

Infections of mandibular molars spread into the submental space because the disease breaks out of bone below the mylohyoid line.

A subtle difficult to diagnose pattern of infection spreads through fascial spaces.A fascial space exists between layers of muscles or layers of connective tissue.