Published June 2000

Regional Lymph Node Classification

Metastasis to regional lymph nodes is of major importance in determining treatment and ultimately survival. Regional lymph nodes are classified as follows. N0=no lymph node metastasis; N1=metastasis to lymph nodes in the peribronchial or the ipsilateral hilar region or both, including direct extension; N2=metastasis to ipsilateral mediastinal lymph nodes and subcarinal lymph nodes, and N3=metastasis to contralateral mediastinal lymph nodes, contralateral hilar lymph nodes, ipsilateral or contralateral scalene or supraclavicular lymph nodes.
Lymph Node Map

Fourteen numbered nodal stations are illustrated in the diagrams below. N2 nodes are numbered 1 through 9. Ipsilateral nodes are designated right or left (depending on location of primary tumor), midline prevascular and retrotracheal lymph nodes are considered ipsilateral.
AP Window Map
Open the AP Window Map in separate window.
Axial Lymph Node Map
Lymphatic Pathways
Doubling Time
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