Cartoon illustration representing the two distinct pathways for lymphatic dissemination from the sites of mucosal exposure.

The anatomic position and commonly used nomenclature for all relevant lymphatic nodes are shown. The two distinct lymphatic dissemination pathways are highlighted by arrows with rectal/vaginal dissemination pathway occurs via the internal iliac, then the common iliac followed by the para-aortic chain. The colonic dissemination pathway includes the para-clonic LN, the left colic LN, inferior mesenteric LN, and the para-aortic system.