There is one Axillary vein on each side of the body. Axillary Vein originates at the lower side of the Teres Major Muscle (muscle of upper limb) and is a continuation of the Brachial Vein. Brachial Vein and Basilic Vein (superficial vein of upper limb) forms Axillary Vein. Cephalic Vein (superficial vein of upper limb) joins the communicating part of the Axillary Vein. Other veins that join it are as follows.

• Subscapular Vein

• Circumflex Humeral vein

• Lateral Thoracic Vein

• Thoracoacromial Vein

It becomes the Subclavian Vein after terminating at the lateral margin of the First Rib.

Axillary Artery accompanies the Axillary Vein along its course.

FUNCTION

Axillary Vein is a large blood vessel that carries blood from the lateral side of Thorax, Axilla (Armpit) and Upper Limb back to the Heart.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Ailment involving the Axillary Vein is known as Axillary Vein Thrombosis which results in swelling and pain in the upper limb. This is commonly caused by contact of Subclavian Vein and Axillary Vein.