Benign lymphoproliferative disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a review of three benign lymphoproliferative disorders commonly encountered in nursing practice: (1) infectious mononucleosis, (2) cat scratch disease, and (3) sarcoidosis.

DATA SOURCES: Research studies, review articles, and book chapters pertaining to benign lymphoproliferative disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Benign lymphoproliferative disorders may be associated with infections, autoimmune disorders, hypersensitivity reactions, and unknown causes. Most of these disorders are self-limiting; however, some are associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Benign as well as malignant lymphoproliferative disorders will be encountered with increasing frequency by nurses in ambulatory settings. Nurses need to have a basic knowledge of these disorders that present a diagnostic and management challenge.