About Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis is a contagious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It spreads through contact with an infected individual's saliva. This contact includes kissing (thus its moniker "the kissing disease"), eating from contaminated utensils, coughing or sneezing and the like.

Although mononucleosis is usually a disease of younger people, anyone of any age can contract it. It is thought that most adults have contracted a mild case of mononucleosis at some point and developed an immunity. However, severe complications are possible, particularly in persons with compromised immune systems.

Symptoms

Many times the symptoms of mononucleosis resemble those of a minor cold and it goes mostly unnoticed. This is especially true in young children.

Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, night sweats, fever, loss of appetite, headache and rash. There is usually a feeling of general weakness and fatigue. The spleen may be swollen and tender. Mononucleosis can be suspected in cases of strep throat which do not improve with antibiotics.

The fever and sore throat of mononucleosis generally only last for a couple of weeks, but other symptoms may continue for two months or longer.

Diagnosis

Definitive diagnosis of mononucleosis is dependent on blood tests for Epstein-Barr antibodies and elevated white cell count. The need for these tests is usually dependent on a physical exam for swollen lymph nodes or tonsils, or tender liver or spleen.

Treatment

Because mononucleosis is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not necessary unless the patient has developed a secondary bacterial infection. Plenty of fluids and bed rest are the first course of treatment.

When swelling is present, the doctor may prescribe corticosteroids. Over the counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually effective against fever and pain. Aspirin is no longer recommended for fever in children under the age of sixteen, due to risk of developing Reyes' syndrome.

For sore throats, lozenges, warm liquids with honey, and salt water gargles are good basic remedies.

It's important to remember that even when feeling a little better, the mononucleosis patient should not resume vigorous physical activity until completely recovered. When the spleen is swollen it is at risk to rupture, which can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.

Even though mononucleosis is a mild illness in most individuals, in order to prevent it spreading to others, as well as to ensure the patient gets enough rest, those with mononucleosis should avoid school and the workplace as well as any large gatherings. This is especially important while running a fever, but is recommended until the patient feels well.

Sources:

Signet/Mosby Medical Encyclopedia
http://www.mayoclinic.org
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/infectiousmononucleosis.html