[Echography of the superficial lymph nodes]

We reviewed the literature on the echographic examination of diseased superficial lymph nodes in the cervical, axillary, the internal mammary and inguinal regions. The anatomy and the technique of the echographic examination were reviewed followed by the role and limitations of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The echographic presentation of normal, inflammatory and tumoral lymph nodes was discussed in light of the indications for echography of the superficial lymph nodes in ear-nose-throat and breast cancer and in cases of lymphomas.