The axillopectoral muscle (of Langer): report of three cases

The axillopectoral muscle, usually called Langer's axillary arch instead of Langer's arm arch, is a supernumerary muscle and is the principal anatomic variation of the axilla. Three cases of the muscle were observed originati ng from latissimus dorsi crossing over the axillary neurovascular bundle an d inserting deep to the insertion of pectoralis major or into the coracoid process. Clinicians should be aware of its existence as it can give rise to different pathologies. It should be recognised and excised to expose the a xillary artery and vein in patients with trauma and to perform axillary lym phadenectomy or axillary bypass. It should be considered in the differentia l diagnosis of axillary masses or in a history of intermittent axillary vei n obstruction. If the muscle causes problems its excision should be curativ e.