Which lymphatic structure do the lateral portions of eyelid lymphatics drain into?

The lateral portions of eyelid lymphatics drain into the pre-auricular lymph node. This node is located just in front of the ear and serves as a significant collecting point for lymphatic drainage from the eyelid and surrounding areas. The pre-auricular lymph node is particularly relevant in the context of infections or inflammatory conditions affecting the eye and eyelids, as any pathology in these areas often results in accompanying lymphadenopathy in this node.

Understanding the anatomy of lymphatic drainage in the eyelids is crucial for recognizing how infections can spread and how they may manifest as swelling of lymph nodes in the pre-auricular region. This knowledge is often used in clinical practice to assess conditions related to the eyes and eyelids, further underscoring the importance of the pre-auricular lymph node in ocular health.