Submental triangle

Submental Triangle

The Submental Triangle (also known as the Submental Space) is an anatomical region located in the anterior part of the neck. It is one of the six paired triangles of the neck.

Etymology

The term "Submental" is derived from the Latin words "sub" meaning "under" and "mentum" meaning "chin". Therefore, the Submental Triangle is the area located under the chin.

Anatomy

The Submental Triangle is bounded by the anterior belly of the Digastric Muscle laterally, the midline of the neck medially, and the Hyoid Bone as its base. The floor of the triangle is formed by the Mylohyoid Muscle, and its roof is formed by the investing layer of the Deep Cervical Fascia and the skin.

Contents

The contents of the Submental Triangle include the Submental Lymph Nodes and small veins which form the Anterior Jugular Vein.

Clinical Significance

The Submental Triangle is clinically significant as it is often examined for the presence of lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), which can be indicative of various medical conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancers.

Related Terms

• Anterior Triangle of the Neck
• Posterior Triangle of the Neck
• Carotid Triangle
• Muscular Triangle
• Occipital Triangle
• Omoclavicular Triangle

Submental_triangle

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  Muscles of the neck with submental triangle highlighted
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  Submental triangle and surrounding structures
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  Muscles of the neck, anterior view
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  Submental triangle in relation to the hyoid bone
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  Structure of Adam's apple
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  Anatomy of the neck, lateral view