Diseases of the Lymphatic and Immune Systems

Lymphatic System

Elephantiasis-a condition in which blockage of lymphatic vessels results in enormous enlargement of body parts (e.g., legs, scrotum); the end stage of filariasis.

            Cause: filarial infection.

            Contraindications/indications: obtain approval of client's doctor before performing bodywork.

Infectious mononucleosis (kissing disease)-a contagious disease spread through direct contact; produces swollen lymph nodes and submandibular glands as well as sore throat, fever, rash, overall fatigue, and an enlarged spleen and liver; most common in people 15 to 35 years of age.

            Cause: Epstein-Barr virus infection.

            Contraindications/indications: all body work is contraindicated until the client's doctor gives approval.

Splenomegaly-enlargement of the spleen; may be up to 10 times the normal size.

            Causes: mononucleosis; malaria; toxemia.

            Contraindications/indications: obtain approval of client's doctor before performing bodywork; avoid abdominal area, especially around the spleen; all massage should be light.

Lymphedema-an accumulation of fluid, proteins, and fibrosis in the extremities secondary to the impairment of the lymph vessels; results in varying degrees of swelling, from mild swelling to severe disabling enlargement of a limb.

            Cause: destruction or surgical removal of lymph vessels (most commonly from cases of breast cancer, tumor removal, or radiation therapy).

            Contraindications/indications: massage can play a critical role in reducing edema, but bodywork must be done very slowly and firmly, with the affected limb elevated to remove fluids from affected limb; obtain advice and approval of client's doctor before performing any bodywork to make sure patient does not have congestive heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, and/or active infection.

Hodgkin disease-a type of malignant lymphoma; causes decreased lymphoid function, which leads to decreased T-cell function and immunodeficiency; progresses in stages; usually arises in cervical lymph nodes; most frequently affects young adults; signs and symptoms include splenomegaly, anemia, fatigue, fever, and overall body wasting,

            Cause: cancer in lymphatic structures.

            Contraindications/indications: obtain approval of client's doctor before performing bodywork.

Immune System

Rejection-occurs when a transplanted tissue is attacked and broken down by the host's immune system.

            Cause: natural immune response involving the production of antibodies, white blood cells, and T-cells against foreign tissue.

            Contraindications/indications: consult with client's doctor.

Allergy-hypersensitivity to a particular allergen (foreign agent. Food, drug) usually considered harmless; may cause bronchial or sinus congestion, runny nose, pruitus (itching), nausea, or even serious systemic reactions such as anaphylactic shock; affects more than 15% of the population of the United States; treatment usually includes antihistamine drugs.

            Cause: genetically influenced hypersensitive immune system.

            Contraindications/indications: massage is generally indicated; use caution when client is on medication or having an allergic reaction.

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-a group of disorders characterized by the destruction of the immune system that leaves a person unable to fight infections and cancer; very high incidence among homosexuals and drug users; mortality rate exceeds 80%; signs include fatigue, fever, weight loss, and plenomegaly.

            Causes: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection that destroys T helper cells, thus inactivating the immune system; Hodgkin disease; various other diseases.

            Contraindications/indications: always use universal precautions; obtain advice and approval of client's doctor before performing bodywork.