Also known as mononucleosis or mono Pfeiffer's
disease or glandular fever, infectious mononucleosis can
be identified by inflamed lymph glands and constant
fatigue. The disease is named so as the amount of
mononuclear leukocytes which belong to white cells
increase in number. The cause of the disease is EBV
(Epstein - Barr virus) or in some cases cytomegalovirus.
Both these viruses belong to the family of herpes
simplex. According to statistic majority of the adults
in the United States are exposed to the virus Epstein –
Barr, a very widespread virus. Although the virus does
not show any visible affects in children but it does in
adolescents which can lead to infectious mononucleosis
in nearly fifty percent of cases of exposure to the
virus.
The other virus called cytomegalovirus which also
belongs to the family of herpes simplex causes the cells
to become enlarged. According to statistics, about
eighty percent of adolescents infected with this virus
generally don’t see any further symptoms. Although EBV
has potential to develop infectious mononucleosis in
adolescents the virus could make throat and blood cells
its home for the lifetime. The virus has the capability
to bounce back and reactive from time to time but the
consolation is that it would reactivate without
symptoms.
The condition usually lasts for 1-2 months. The symptoms
may vary from one adolescent to other but may include
inflamed lymph glands in areas such as groin, neck and
armpits, fever, continuous fatigue, enlarged spleen,
sore throat as a result of tonsillitis that can make
things difficult to swallow and last but not the least
minor liver damage that can lead to short-term jaundice.
Some adolescents may also experience symptoms such as
abdominal pain, petechial hemorrhage, muscle ache,
headache, depression, loss of appetite, skin rash,
weakness, dizziness, enlarged prostrate, dry cough,
swelled genitals and puffy and swollen eyes. Some
parents are puzzled by the symptoms of mononucleosis as
it may be similar to other medical conditions. It is
safe to consult a doctor in such cases.
The viruses are usually transmitted to other people
through saliva (the reason why it is also called kissing
disease), blood, sharing drinks and sharing utensils.
The symptoms usually lasts for 4-6 weeks and do not
cross 4 months. The disease is diagnosable but requires
a though medical history of the adolescent. The
diagnosis also involves physical examination of the
adolescent and is based on symptoms reported to the
physician. The diagnosis is further supported by
laboratory test like blood test, antibody test and test
to count white blood cells.
A rest of about a month is generally advised and normal
activities can be resumed after acute symptoms
disappear. Also care should be taken to avoid physical
activities which are heavy in nature and also activities
or sports involving physical contacts should also be
avoided. Care must also be taken to avoid eating sweet
things in excess for few months.
