axilla

Introduction

The space below the shoulder joint, bounded by:

• the pectoralis major, anteriorly
• the latissimus dorsi posteriorly
• the serratus anterior, medially
• the humerus laterally.

It has a superior opening between the clavicle, scapula & 1st rib (cervicoaxillary canal), & an inferior opening covered by the axillary fascia.

It contains:

• the axillary artery & vein
• the infraclavicular part of the brachial plexus
• axillary lymph nodes & vessels
• areolar tissue

More general terms

• anatomic structure

More specific terms

• axillary fold
• axillary sheath