sternal node [Gk, sternon, chest; L, nodus, knot] , a node in one of the three groups of thoracic parietal lymph nodes. They are situated at the anterior ends of the intercostal spaces, adjacent to the internal thoracic artery. The afferent vessels of the sternal nodes drain the lymph from the breast, the diaphragmatic surface of the liver, and the deep ventral thoracic wall. Also called internal mammary node. Compare diaphragmatic node, intercostal node. See also lymphatic system, lymph node.
