It explains which lymph nodes you need to check and how to undertake this procedure yourself. The purpose of this information is to help you understand why you have your nodes checked at your follow-up appointments. Check the lymph nodes in the other groin.Feel the vertical chain along the upper thigh (see above diagram).Feel the horizontal chain of nodes in the right groin just below the ligament (see above diagram).Feel along the inner border of the arm.ĭiagram of the lymph nodes in the groinThere are two areas to look for inguinal (groin) nodes:.Now move your fingers firmly against the chest wall as follows:
Lymph is a fluid that contains proteins and waste materials, which is collected from around the cells in the body, eventually draining into larger vessels. This system consists of lymphatic vessels and tissue. Your doctor or nurse will show you how and which lymph nodes to check. This is why you have been given this information. Some people express a wish to check their own lymph nodes between clinic appointments. The aim is to detect any enlargement of the lymph nodes and undertake investigations at an early stage. The lymph nodes examined depend on the location of your skin cancer, eg: if your skin cancer was on your leg then the lymph nodes in your inguinal area (groin) will be felt or if on your face then the nodes in your head and neck would be examined. That is why, as part of your examination, your nodes are examined by your doctor or specialist nurse at your follow-up appointments. You have been diagnosed with a skin cancer that on occasions can spread into the lymphatic system.