Mononucleosis, also known as the “kissing” disease, is a common viral infection that usually affects teenagers and young adults. It is caused by several viruses, but the most common is the Epstein-Barr virus. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as extreme fatigue, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, in addition to affecting the liver and spleen. Mononucleosis is characterized by a variety of symptoms, which may include fever, fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms are often attributed to the immune system’s activity fighting the virus. Some individuals may not show any symptoms, making it difficult to determine how widespread the disease is in the community. It is important for individuals to understand this disease to increase awareness of how it is transmitted and how to prevent it.

What does a high level of monocytes in the blood mean?

 

A high level of monocytes in the blood indicates an increase in the number of these cells, which are a type of white blood cell and play an important role in the immune system. High monocyte levels can be associated with a number of health conditions, including:

- Viral infections, such as infectious mononucleosis.

- Chronic inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

- Some immune diseases, such as lupus.

- Chronic bacterial infections.

- Blood disorders, such as leukemia.

Is there a cure for infectious mononucleosis?

 

There is no definitive cure for infectious mononucleosis because it is caused by a viral infection, and treatment focuses mainly on relieving symptoms. Ways to deal with the disease include:

- Getting enough rest.

- Drinking plenty of fluids.

- Taking painkillers for fever and pain, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

- Using lozenges to relieve a sore throat.

- Avoiding strenuous physical activity to reduce the risk of rupturing an enlarged spleen.

In rare cases where the infection affects internal organs such as the liver or spleen, supportive treatment or special medical follow-up may be necessary.

### 3. Is mononucleosis a chronic disease?

 

Infectious mononucleosis is not classified as a chronic disease. Symptoms usually improve within two to four weeks, but some people may experience fatigue for longer. However, the effects of the disease may persist for some people for several months after recovery, especially if symptoms are severe or affect vital organs such as the spleen or liver.

### Causes of mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, also known as lymphadenitis, is often caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which belongs to the family of viruses that cause the infection. This disease is mainly spread between individuals through the exchange of fluids, making close contact, such as kissing, one of the main factors in the transmission of the virus. This social habit contributes to increased rates of infection, especially among young people and adolescents who are more socially active. In addition to physical contact, environmental factors play an important role in the spread of mononucleosis. Individuals who live in crowded conditions, such as college students, may be more susceptible to infection. Sharing personal items can also increase the risk of infection.

What are the tests for infectious mononucleosis?

 

Infectious mononucleosis tests are used to detect infections caused by viruses that include Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus, and other viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis A, B, and C viruses, and adenoviruses.

These viruses are usually transmitted through body fluids such as saliva, which is why this disease is called the "kissing disease" because it is easily transmitted through kissing. However, the infection can also be transmitted by sharing personal items such as spoons, cups, toothbrushes, or lip balms with an infected person.

Each individual's immune response plays an important role in the development of the disease. Some people may have a stronger or weaker immune response to EBV, which results in different symptoms and severity of infection. Therefore, some individual characteristics, such as age and previous health conditions, can be considered factors influencing how mononucleosis affects these individuals.

**Types of tests for infectious mononucleosis**

 

There are several tests used to diagnose infectious mononucleosis, the most prominent of which are:

1. **Monospot Test**: This test aims to detect certain antibodies in the blood that are produced during or after infection. This test is considered rapid, as its results usually appear within an hour, but it may record false negative results in some cases.

2. **EBV Antibody Test**: This test is used to determine the presence of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus, which is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis. This test can show whether you have been infected recently or in the past, based on the type of antibodies present in your blood.

How is mononucleosis diagnosed?

 

Mononucleosis is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Your doctor may recommend some blood tests, especially the mono spot test, which detects the presence of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus in your blood. It is important to note that this test can sometimes be inaccurate during the first week of infection, which can lead to false negative results. Other tests that may be done include a complete blood count, which can help determine whetherThe number of lymphocytes in the blood was higher than normal, as an increase in their number is an indicator that may support the diagnosis of the disease. In some cases, it may be necessary to measure the amount of antibodies to the virus that causes the disease in the blood to confirm the diagnosis.

**Complications of mononucleosis**

 

Monocytes do not pose a major risk, as most children who have been exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus will acquire antibodies, which gives them immunity that protects them from contracting the disease again. However, there may be some conditions that cause complications that are more serious than the disease itself, and these complications include:

1. Enlargement of the spleen, and in severe cases, the spleen may rupture, leading to severe and sudden pain in the left side of the upper abdomen.

2. Liver problems, such as hepatitis and jaundice.

3. Anemia.

4. Low platelet count.

5. Myocarditis.

6. Meningitis, encephalitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

7. Swelling of the tonsils, which may impede breathing.

The Epstein-Barr virus can also cause more serious illnesses in people with weakened immune systems, such as those infected with HIV or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), or those taking immunosuppressive medications after organ transplants.

What are the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis?

 

After an incubation period of 4 to 6 weeks, symptoms of the disease appear as follows:

- Feeling very tired

- Headache

- Loss of appetite

- Severe pain due to inflammation of the tonsils and pharynx, with the appearance of white spots on the tonsils and the back wall of the pharynx

- Difficulty swallowing

- High temperature

- Muscle pain

- The appearance of a rash in the form of red spots on the chest and arms

- Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck and armpits

- Severe pain in the upper left part of the abdomen with an enlarged spleen, which can be detected during a clinical examination by a doctor.

When is a mononucleosis test necessary?

 

If you or a family member has symptoms such as fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and a rash, your doctor may recommend a mononucleosis test. This test is especially important if your symptoms are similar to those of another infection, such as strep throat, a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics. Mononucleosis is a viral infection, and antibiotics don’t help.

**How ​​to get a mononucleosis test**

 

A mononucleosis test is usually done by taking a blood sample, either by pricking your fingertip or by drawing a sample from a vein.

For a fingertip test, a medical technician will prick your fingertip with a small needle to collect a small amount of blood.

For a vein test, a medical technician will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect blood in a test tube.

Does the test require any special preparation?

 

The mononucleosis test does not require any special preparation. It can be done at any time of the day and usually takes less than five minutes.

There are no major risks associated with having this test. You may feel a slight pain or bruising where the needle is inserted, but these symptoms usually go away quickly.

How can the results of the mononucleosis test be interpreted?

 

The results of the mononucleosis test can be interpreted as follows:

- If the results of the monospot test are positive: This usually indicates that you have mononucleosis.

- If the results of the monospot test are negative but your symptoms are still present, your doctor may order an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibody test to confirm the diagnosis.

The results of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibody test:

- Positive: This indicates that you have been infected with the Epstein-Barr virus, either recently or in the past.

- Negative: This means that you do not have a current infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, so your symptoms may be caused by another health condition.

**How ​​can infectious mononucleosis be treated?**

 

The doctor will prescribe treatment that focuses on relieving symptoms, including:

- Pain relievers

- Antipyretics, avoiding the use of aspirin

- Physical rest when feeling very tired.

It is important to note that infectious mononucleosis is usually a benign disease, and often goes away on its own within a period ranging from 4 to 8 weeks, although the feeling of fatigue may continue for several months.

**Treatment of mononucleosis**

There is no specific treatment for mononucleosis, or what is known as the kissing disease, as antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. However, in some cases, a sore throat resulting from mononucleosis may be accompanied by a bacterial infection such as streptococcus, or sinusitis or tonsillitis may occur. In these cases, antibiotic treatment may be required.

It is preferable to avoid taking amoxicillin and other penicillin derivatives for those with mononucleosis, as some may experience a rash when taking these medications. The following steps can help relieve the symptoms of mononucleosis in a child:

- Drink plenty of water and different types of fruit juices, as fluids help reduce fever.

Influenza. This is due to the association of aspirin with Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition in children.

- Gargling with salt water several times a day is recommended to relieve a sore throat, by mixing half a teaspoon of salt in a cup containing 8 ounces of warm water.

- It is preferable to wait before returning to sports or some other activities. To avoid the risk of rupture of the spleen, it is recommended to wait at least a month before resuming strenuous activities, lifting weights, orViolent spleen rupture can cause severe bleeding and is considered a medical emergency. You can consult your child's doctor about when it is safe to resume activities, and the doctor may suggest a gradual program to help your child regain strength during the recovery period.

What are the methods used to deal with infectious mononucleosis?

 

Although there is no specific treatment for this disease, some measures can be taken to relieve symptoms, such as:

- Get enough rest.

- Drink plenty of fluids.

- Use lozenges to relieve sore throat.

- Take pain and fever relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, with the need to avoid giving aspirin to children and adolescents, as it can lead to Reye's disease, which affects the brain and liver.

In some rare cases, hospitalization may be required, especially if there is significant enlargement of organs such as the spleen or liver.

**How ​​to prevent infectious mononucleosis**

 

If you have infectious mononucleosis, you can reduce your risk of transmitting the virus by following these tips:

- Avoid kissing.

- Wash your hands regularly, especially before cooking, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.

- Use tissues and dispose of them in a tightly closed trash can.

- Don't share personal items with others, such as toilet paper and toothbrushes.

- Clean things you use frequently, such as your phone and computer keyboard.

- Make sure to ventilate your home at least twice a day.