Infectious Mononucleosis

Question 1

what is infectious mononucleosis commonly known as

Answer 1

glandular fever

Question 2

what is infectious mononucleosis most commonly caused by

Answer 2

EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus) in 90% of cases

Question 3

is infectious mononucleosis worse in adults or children

Answer 3

in children, its more mild

more severe in adults

Question 4

what is EBV

Answer 4

human herpes simplex type 4

EBV is mainly caused by saliva (kissing etc)

Question 5

presenting symptoms

Answer 5

fever, pharyngitis, lymphadenopathy, malaise, splenomegaly

rash, hepatitis, jaundice

Question 6

risk factors for infectious mononucleosis

Answer 6

kissing and sexual intercourse

Question 7

investigations for infectious mononucleosis

Answer 7

FBC (high WCC, lymphocytosis)

heterophile antibodies,

EBV specific antibodies,

LFTs

Question 8

management of infectious mononucleosis

Answer 8

supportive care (paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief)

corticosteroids (prednisolone)- helps with lymphadenopathy