Knowra Infectious mononucleosis Infectious mononucleosis Infectious mononucleosis is a contagious illness, usually caused by Epstein–Barr virus, marked by fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
Epstein–Barr virus : A herpesvirus that infects B lymphocytes and epithelial cells and causes most cases of infectious mononucleosis. It is the usual cause and persists in the body after acute illness.
Heterophile antibody test : A blood test that detects heterophile antibodies commonly produced during Epstein–Barr virus infection. This rapid test can support diagnosis, though it may be negative early in illness.
Cytomegalovirus mononucleosis : A mononucleosis-like illness caused by cytomegalovirus, often without the prominent sore throat of Epstein–Barr virus disease. It can produce a similar syndrome but usually lacks heterophile antibodies.
Saliva transmission : The spread of infectious agents through saliva exchanged by kissing, shared objects, or respiratory secretions. Epstein–Barr virus commonly spreads through saliva, giving mononucleosis its nickname, kissing disease.
Herpesviridae : A family of DNA viruses that establish lifelong latent infections in humans and other animals. Epstein–Barr virus belongs to this family and shares its capacity for latency.
B lymphocyte : An immune cell that produces antibodies and can mature into antibody-secreting plasma cells. Epstein–Barr virus infects these cells and establishes lifelong latency in them.
Epstein–Barr virus serology : Blood testing for antibodies to Epstein–Barr virus antigens to identify infection stage or prior exposure. It helps clarify suspected cases when heterophile testing is negative or inconclusive.
Acute HIV infection : The early symptomatic phase of HIV infection, which can cause fever, rash, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. Its flu-like presentation can be mistaken for mononucleosis, but testing and implications differ.
Post-viral fatigue : Persistent tiredness that continues after an acute viral infection has otherwise improved. Fatigue can outlast fever and throat symptoms, sometimes disrupting daily activities for weeks.
Pharyngitis : Inflammation of the throat, commonly causing pain and difficulty swallowing. It describes the prominent sore throat that accompanies many cases.
Show all 27