Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis is a viral disease characterized by fatigue, sore throat, and fever, most commonly affecting adolescents. Mononucleosis is caused by an infection from a virus, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), viral hepatitis or Toxoplasmosis. Symptoms of mononucleosis vary with each case, however common symptoms include enlarged liver, lymph nodes, or spleen, weight loss, liver cell inflammation, and jaundice. Less common symptoms include anemia, splenic rupture or hemorrhage, Pneumonitis, and upper airway obstruction. The symptoms of mononucleosis are similar to other conditions such as the cold or flu, leukemia, acute HIV, and diphtheria. Treatment for mononucleosis includes bed-rest and a limit to physical activity in the month following infection. Certain pain medications are used in particular cases. Antibiotics are only effective to eliminate a co-occurring streptococcal infection (Strep throat).