ABSTRACT
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.
