CLT Contraindications & Precautions for Lymphatic Therapy

Question 1

Which condition is considered an absolute contraindication for Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?

Accepted Answer

Active deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Answer

Active DVT is an absolute contraindication because MLD could dislodge the thrombus and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Question 2

Which cardiac condition represents an absolute contraindication for lymphatic therapy?

Accepted Answer

Decompensated congestive heart failure

Answer

Decompensated CHF is an absolute contraindication because increasing lymphatic return overloads an already failing heart, risking acute decompensation.

Question 3

Active malignancy in or near the treatment area is classified as:

Accepted Answer

An absolute contraindication for MLD

Answer

Active malignancy is an absolute contraindication because stimulating lymphatic flow could theoretically promote metastatic spread of cancer cells.

Question 4

A patient presents with acute cellulitis in the lymphedematous limb. The correct management is:

Accepted Answer

Defer all CDT until infection resolves with antibiotics

Answer

Acute cellulitis requires antibiotics first; MLD and compression are deferred until the infection resolves because treatment could spread bacteria systemically.

Question 5

Renal failure is a contraindication for lymphatic therapy primarily because:

Accepted Answer

The kidneys may be unable to process the increased fluid mobilized during treatment

Answer

In renal failure, the kidneys cannot adequately filter and excrete the increased fluid load mobilized by MLD, creating risk of dangerous fluid overload.

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT Contraindications & Precautions for Lymphatic Therapy