A rare incidence of Langer’s axillary arch

The Langer's axillary arch muscle (AA) is a rare anatomical variant in the axillary region, generally arising from the latissimus dorsi muscle and inserting at various sites. Found in approximately 7% of axillary explorations, AA can contribute to conditions like costoclavicular compression, thoracic outlet syndrome and nerve entrapments.  
Case report: In a routine axillary dissection, one unilateral AA was identified in the left axilla in a cadaver of a 76-year-old male, measuring 7.5 cm in length and 8 mm in breadth. Dissection revealed the AA originating from the lateral border of latissimus dorsi, passing superior to the axillary vein and brachial plexus, and inserting into the pectoralis major tendon. This muscle may complicate surgical access in breast cancer surgeries and increase risk of misdiagnosis, highlighting the need for anatomical awareness among healthcare providers to avoid diagnostic and procedural complications.