What is epicolic node ?

• Lymphatic drainage also follows the arterial anatomy. • Lymphatics from the colon and proximal two thirds of the rectum ultimately drain into the para-aortic nodal chain, which empties into the cisterna chyli. • Superior and inferior mesenteric nodes are part of Pre-aortic group of lymph nodes. • Lymphatics draining the distal rectum and anal canal may drain either to the para-aortic nodes or laterally, through the internal iliac system, to the superficial inguinal nodal basin (dentate line roughly marks the level where lymphatic drainage diverges). • Lymph nodes are commonly grouped into levels depending on their location.