Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Where does the lymphatic drainage from the lateral malleolus go?

1. Inguinal nodes

2. Popliteal nodes

3. Solar plexus

4. Femoral nodes

The correct answer is: Popliteal nodes

The lateral malleolus, located at the outer aspect of the ankle, primarily drains into the popliteal lymph nodes. This is due to the anatomical pathways that lymphatic vessels follow as they collect lymph from the lower extremities. The popliteal nodes are situated at the back of the knee and serve as an integral part of the lymphatic system for the leg. The lymphatic drainage from the lateral malleolus follows a pathway that leads to the popliteal nodes, where lymph is filtered and may then pass to deeper nodes as it continues up the leg. After the popliteal nodes, lymph may eventually drain into more proximal nodes, such as the inguinal and femoral nodes. However, the primary collection point for lymphatic drainage from the region of the lateral malleolus is indeed the popliteal nodes, making this the most accurate choice. The other options do not represent the immediate pathway for lymphatic drainage from the lateral malleolus. The inguinal nodes are further along the lymphatic pathway and are not directly involved with the drainage from the ankle. The solar plexus pertains to a network of nerves rather than lymphatic drainage. The femoral nodes are also part of a higher drainage pathway and