Infectious Mononucleosis- a type of viral infection. It has affected people of all ages for centuries. Infectious Mononucleosis can be traced back to the early 20th century. Doctors noticed a pattern of symptoms among their patients that they couldn’t explain. The disease was eventually named “mononucleosis”. It refers to the high number of mononuclear white blood cells in patients’ blood.
Types of Infectious Mononucleosis
There are three types of Mononucleosis. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) mononucleosis, cytomegalovirus (CMV) mononucleosis, and human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) mononucleosis.
- EBV mononucleosis is the most common and is caused by the EBV virus.
- CMV mononucleosis is caused by the CMV virus and is the second most common.
- HHV-6 Mononucleosis is the least common and is caused by the HHV-6 virus.
Symptoms of Infectious Mononucleosis
The symptoms of infectious Mononucleosis can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include the following
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck and armpits
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Enlarged spleen or liver (in some cases)
How is Infectious Mononucleosis Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on symptoms like fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. However, a specific blood test can confirm the diagnosis of mono.
The most commonly used test is the Monospot test, which looks for antibodies to the EBV in the blood. A positive Monospot test confirms the diagnosis of mono. Other tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests, may also be performed.
It’s also important to note that mono can be mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or strep throat. Therefore, seeking medical attention is essential if you suspect you have mono.
Source URL: https://www.kayawell.com/blog/the-complete-guide-to-infectious-mononucleosis-causes-symptoms-diagnosis
