Summary about Disease
Infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as mono or the "kissing disease," is a viral infection primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It's characterized by fatigue, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. While generally not serious, the symptoms can be debilitating and last for several weeks.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Extreme fatigue
Fever
Sore throat (often severe)
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
Headache
Skin rash
Swollen tonsils
Enlarged spleen
Loss of appetite
Muscle aches
Causes
The primary cause of infectious mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Less commonly, other viruses such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) can cause mono. EBV spreads through saliva, hence the nickname "kissing disease." It can also spread through sharing drinks, food, or personal items like toothbrushes.
Medicine Used
There is no specific antiviral medication to cure mononucleosis. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and pain. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in rare cases to reduce swelling of the throat or tonsils. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like mono.
Is Communicable
Yes, infectious mononucleosis is communicable. It spreads primarily through saliva. The virus can be transmitted even before symptoms appear and can remain contagious for several weeks or even months after symptoms resolve.
Precautions
To prevent the spread of mono:
Avoid kissing or sharing drinks, food, utensils, toothbrushes, or other personal items with others, especially while symptomatic.
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Avoid close contact with others if you are experiencing symptoms.
Individuals, especially athletes, should avoid strenuous activities and contact sports while symptomatic and for several weeks after recovery, due to the risk of spleen rupture.
How long does an outbreak last?
Symptoms typically last for 2 to 4 weeks, but fatigue can persist for several weeks or even months after other symptoms have subsided.
How is it diagnosed?
Mono is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical exam. A blood test, specifically a monospot test or an EBV antibody test, can confirm the diagnosis. These tests detect antibodies produced by the body in response to the EBV infection. A complete blood count (CBC) may also be performed to look for elevated white blood cell counts and atypical lymphocytes.
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation Period: 4-6 weeks (time between infection and onset of symptoms)
Initial Symptoms: Fatigue, malaise, headache, and muscle aches.
Acute Phase: Sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes develop, typically lasting 1-2 weeks.
Recovery Phase: Most symptoms resolve within 2-4 weeks, but fatigue may persist for several weeks or months.
Important Considerations
Spleen Rupture: An enlarged spleen is a common complication. Avoid contact sports and strenuous activities for at least 4 weeks or as directed by a doctor to reduce the risk of spleen rupture.
Liver Involvement: Liver inflammation (hepatitis) can occur, so alcohol should be avoided during the illness and recovery period.
Secondary Infections: Mono can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to secondary infections.
Chronic Fatigue: In some cases, fatigue can persist for several months after the acute phase of the illness.
Reactivation: EBV remains dormant in the body after the initial infection. It can reactivate, but reactivation is usually asymptomatic.