Sample CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. What distinguishes lymphatic capillaries from blood capillaries?

   • A. Lymphatic capillaries have a complete basement membrane
   • B. Lymphatic capillaries have overlapping endothelial cells acting as one-way valves
   • C. Lymphatic capillaries carry red blood cells
   • D. Lymphatic capillaries are smaller in diameter

   Answer: B. Lymphatic capillaries have overlapping endothelial cells acting as one-way valves

   The overlapping endothelial 'flap' cells of lymphatic capillaries allow large molecules and excess fluid to enter but prevent backflow.

2. Who developed the original Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) technique in the 1930s?

   • A. Robert Lauche
   • B. Emil and Estrid Vodder
   • C. Hildegard Wittlinger
   • D. Michael Foeldi

   Answer: B. Emil and Estrid Vodder

   Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife Estrid developed MLD in France in the 1930s based on their observations of patients with chronic sinusitis and swollen lymph nodes.

3. What is the 'safety valve' of the lymphatic system?

   • A. The thoracic duct valve
   • B. The lymphatic system's reserve capacity to handle excess fluid beyond normal load
   • C. Lymph node filtration of pathogens
   • D. The venous angle junction with the subclavian vein

   Answer: B. The lymphatic system's reserve capacity to handle excess fluid beyond normal load

   The safety valve refers to the lymphatic system's ability to increase flow by 10–20 times above baseline when interstitial fluid accumulates.

4. A patient presents with acute inflammation following an insect sting on the forearm. The therapist should:

   • A. Perform MLD distal to the sting to reduce distal edema
   • B. Apply compression bandaging immediately to reduce swelling
   • C. Avoid MLD on the affected limb until acute inflammation resolves
   • D. Perform MLD proximal to the sting site only

   Answer: C. Avoid MLD on the affected limb until acute inflammation resolves

   Acute inflammation is a local contraindication; MLD should be avoided in the area because it could spread inflammatory mediators and worsen the reaction.

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