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What is infectious mononucleosis?
Infectious mononucleosis is a type of infection. It causes swollen lymph glands, fever, sore throat, and often extreme fatigue. It’s often spread through contact with infected saliva from the mouth. Symptoms can take between 4 to 6 weeks to appear. They often don't last beyond 4 months. Transmission is hard to prevent because even people without symptoms can carry the virus in their saliva.
What causes infectious mononucleosis?
Infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). A milder form is caused by the cytomegalovirus (CMV). Both EBV and CMV are members of the herpes virus family.
In the U.S., most adults have been infected by age 30 with the EBV. This is a very common virus. When children are infected with it, they often don'tt have any noticeable symptoms. But uninfected teens and young adults who come in contact with the virus may develop infectious mononucleosis.
Even after the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis have gone away, the EBV will stay dormant in the throat and blood cells throughout that person's life. The virus can reactivate from time to time in the saliva or blood. But it almost always does not cause symptoms.
What are the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis?
This illness usually lasts for 1 to 2 months. Each person may have different symptoms. But these are the most common symptoms of mononucleosis:
Swollen lymph glands in the neck, armpits, and groin
Sore throat, including white patches in the back of the throat
Head and body aches
Liver problems, such as mild liver inflammation that can rarely cause temporary jaundice, a yellow discoloring of the skin and whites of the eyes due to abnormally high levels of bilirubin (bile pigmentation) in the bloodstream
Once a person has had mononucleosis, the virus remains dormant in the throat and blood cells for the rest of that person's life. He or she is usually not at risk for getting the illness again, unless his or her immune system is weakened.
The symptoms of mononucleosis may look like other health problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
How is infectious mononucleosis diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms. You may also need certain blood tests, such as:
White blood cell count. The presence of certain types of white blood cells (atypical lymphocytes) may support the diagnosis.
Antibodies. These may be in the blood in response to certain parts of the EBV or CMV.
Heterophile antibody test. This is the so-called monospot test. If positive, it may mean you have infectious mononucleosis. But this test may be falsely positive if you actually have another condition. Or it can be falsely negative even if you have the illness.
How is infectious mononucleosis treated?
Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is.
Antiviral antibiotics don't help the body get rid of the infection quicker. Treatment for mononucleosis may include:
Getting rest to give the body's immune system time to kill the virus
Drinking lots of liquids
Taking over-the-counter medicine as directed for discomfort and fever
Not playing contact sports or putting too much pressure on the stomach area to avoid hurting the spleen
Taking corticosteroids only when needed to reduce swelling of the throat and tonsils
What are possible complications of infectious mononucleosis?
Complications don’t happen often. They may include:
Nervous system problems, such as encephalitis, meningitis, and other health problems
Inflammation of the heart muscle
Heart rhythm problems
Obstruction of the upper airways
Can infectious mononucleosis be prevented?
It can't be prevented. But it is wise to not kiss or share dishes, food utensils, or personal items with anyone who has the infection and symptoms.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
If your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms, let your healthcare provider know.
Key points about infectious mononucleosis
Infectious mononucleosis causes swollen lymph glands, fever, sore throat, and extreme fatigue.
The illness usually lasts for 1 to 2 months.
Symptoms may include fever; swollen lymph glands in the neck, armpits, and groin; constant fatigue; sore throat; enlarged spleen; and liver inflammation.
Treatment includes getting rest, drinking lots of liquids, and taking over-the-counter medicines for discomfort and fever. You should also avoid too much pressure on the stomach area.
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed:
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