4.1 Autoimmune and Malignancy Introduction
Learning Objectives
- Apply principles of evidence-based practice when using the nursing process
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of the nurse in caring for the client with autoimmune and malignancy disorders
- Explain the pathophysiology of autoimmune and malignancy disorders
- Identify life span considerations of the client
- Apply principles of client-centered care when considering diversity of the client
- Apply therapeutic communication in caring for the client with autoimmune and malignancy disorders
- Integrate pharmacological and nonpharmacological measures for the client with autoimmune and malignancy disorders
- Interpret common laboratory and diagnostic tests
“Malignancy PreTest” by Kellea Ewen and Open RN is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0
Malignancy and autoimmune disorders can impact any individual, regardless of their age, gender, socioeconomic background, or health status. The unpredictability of these health alterations often leaves clients and families anxious, uncertain, and vulnerable as they fear the impact on overall health and well-being. Many medical resources are dedicated to detecting and treating malignancy and autoimmune diseases. Preventive screening and early diagnosis have become foundational strategies to help ensure that individuals have the best opportunity to maintain health and achieve positive outcomes.
Malignant cells, or cancer, refer to abnormal cells that have the ability to invade and harm tissues.[1] These cells also have the potential to metastasize, or spread, to different parts of the body. Malignant cells differ from benign cells in that malignant cells exhibit uncontrolled growth and rapidly divide, subsequently invading and causing damage to normal functioning cells.
In contrast to malignancy, autoimmune reactions refer to actions within the body where one’s own immune system accidentally initiates a response against the body’s own healthy cells, tissues, or organs.[2] When the body’s immune system is functioning correctly, the body can recognize bacteria, viruses, or any abnormal invader. In autoimmune reactions, the body cannot always distinguish its own healthy cells and begins to target immune actions inappropriately against itself.
Although both malignant and autoimmune reactions can significantly impact health, early detection and treatment are critical for achieving optimal outcomes. This chapter will begin by reviewing the immune response and then introduce concepts related to cancer and hypersensitivity/autoimmune reactions.
- Patel, A. (2020). Benign vs malignant tumors. JAMA Oncology, 6(9), 1488. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2768634 ↵
- Patel, A. (2020). Benign vs malignant tumors. JAMA Oncology, 6(9), 1488. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2768634 ↵
Abnormal cells that have the ability to invade and harm tissues.
Actions within the body where one’s own immune system accidentally initiates a response against the body’s own healthy cells, tissues, or organs.