Axillary fossa - Thoracic wall-Breast - Surface anatomy - e-Anatomy
View the module

Axillary fossa

Fossa axillaris

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

The axillary fossa refers to the central hollow or depression of the armpit. It is bounded by the anterior axillary fold (pectoralis major), posterior axillary fold (latissimus dorsi and teres major), chest wall (ribs and serratus anterior), and the humerus.

For a detailed explanation of its anatomical boundaries and key neurovascular contents, refer to the description of the axilla.

References

  • Gordon, A. and Alsayouri, K. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Axilla. [Updated 2022 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547723/

  • Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 7: Upper Limb’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 684-710.

Gallery