Infectious mononucleosis

Question 1

What is infectious mononucleosis

Answer 1

Glandular fever

Question 2

What is infectious mononucleosis caused by

Answer 2

Epstein - Barr virus

Question 3

How is infectious mononucleosis transmitted

Answer 3

through saliva and sexual contact
most common between 15-24 year olds

Question 4

What may someone with infectious mononucleosis present with

Answer 4

fever, sore throat/pharyngitis/ lymphadenopathy

Question 5

What are some associated complications of infectious mononucleosis

Answer 5

Hepatosplenomegaly - splenic rupture

Lymphoma - Hodgkins, Burkittt’s

Question 6

What investigations are required for infectious mononucleosis

Answer 6

FBC and blood film
- lymohocytosis
-atypical lymphocytes - large , irregular nuclei and clumped chromatin

Monospot -
POSITIVE HETEROPHILE ANTIBODIES- IgM
- cross react with sheep/horse RBCs– agglutination

LFTS- raised transaminases

Direct viral detection
EBV DNA and EBV specific antibodies

Question 7

How do you manage infectious mononucleosis

Answer 7

Analgesia , anti-pyretis
Corticosteroids - if upper airway obstruction
IV IG if thrombocytopenia