Mononucleosis (patient information)
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Assistant Editor-in-Chief: Ethan Leeman
Overview
Infectious mononucleosis (IM) is a very prevalent viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, a herpes virus. 90% of adults have been exposed to the mononucleosis, many as little children, when no symptoms or flu-like symptoms are exhibited. In underdeveloped countries, almost everyone is exposed at a very young age, so mononucleosis exists mostly in developed countries.
What are the symptoms of Mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis has an incubation period of 4-7 weeks, and symptoms are typically for 2-3 weeks, although fatigue can take longer. The main symptoms of infectious mononucleosis are:
- sore throat (more common in children)
- fever
- fatigue
- weight loss
- malaise, general discomfort
- enlarged lymph nodes (more common in children)
- enlarged spleen
- enlarged liver (more common in adults)
- jaundice (more common in adults)
Some rarer and more serious symptoms are:
- lower levels of platelets and blood cells
- rupture or hemorrhage of the spleen
- airway obstruction
- pneumonitis
Cases are almost never fatal.
What to do if you think you have Mononucleosis
Your doctor can test for mononucleosis with a number of different tests. The most common is the searching for atypical lymphocytes in blood. There are no antiviral drugs or treatment for mononucleosis aside from treating symptoms. Rest is recommended while symptoms are present, but activity should resume afterward. However, splenic ruptures are still possible so one should avoid contact sports that pose a threat. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen, can be used to reduce fever and pain. Prednisone is also sometimes to reduce throat inflammation. Antibiotics should not be used, and almost always if used with mononucleosis can cause a non-allergic rash.
How is Mononucleosis spread?
Infectious mononucleosis is spread through immediate contact with saliva, hence the colloquial name "kissing disease." Sharing eating utensils is another way to transmit mononucleosis. Contact through air or blood does not spread mononucleosis. Even long after having been exposed to the virus and any acute symptoms are gone, people still carry the virus. They are typically not at risk of reinfection but are at risk of infecting others. Because so many people have been infected with the virus, prevention from exposure is near impossible.
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for Mononucleosis
Directions to Hospitals Treating Mononucleosis