Mononucleosis is an infectious viral disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) estimates that 90 percent of adults have had mononucleosis, which is most common among people 15 to 19 years old. Mononucleosis is diagnosed with a blood test, and symptoms usually appear four to seven weeks after being exposed to the virus. Mononucleosis is not considered a life-threatening disease, but symptoms can interfere with daily functioning.
Causes
The Epstein-Barr virus causes most cases of mononucleosis, which is spread from person to person from direct contact with saliva infected with the virus. Mononucleosis is also spread through infected blood products.
Symptoms
Mononucleosis begins gradually with headache, fatigue and sore throat, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) says. The sore throat becomes worse, and the tonsils swell. A person may develop a yellow or white film on the tonsils. Occasionally, a streptococcal infection (strep throat) or sinus infection occurs with mononucleosis, both treated with antibiotics. If a person develops a severe sore throat, corticosteroids such as prednisone are prescribed to ease symptoms. Lymph nodes in the neck may also swell and become painful. Weakness, skin rash, loss of appetite and night sweats are also symptoms of mononucleosis.
Complications
A person with mononucleosis may experience spleen swelling, called splenomegaly. In severe cases of splenomegaly and mononucleosis, the spleen may rupture. Splenomegaly can cause abdominal pain and back pain, but sudden sharp pain in the upper left abdomen can be an indication that the spleen has ruptured, which can be life-threatening. The Mayo Clinic says a person with mononucleosis can experience enlargement and mild inflammation of the liver, known as hepatitis. Yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin, known as jaundice, can indicate liver problems.
Less Common Complications
Mononucleosis can cause less common symptoms and complications. A decrease in red blood cells, known as anemia; inflammation of the heart; and low platelet counts occur occasionally. In individuals with suppressed immune systems or who have HIV/AIDS, the Epstein-Barr virus can cause serious illnesses and complications.
Duration
According to the Mayo Clinic, mononucleosis lasts from four to eight weeks, although young children may have a shorter illness. In some people, illness may last for months. Fever and sore throat begin to lessen during the first two weeks; however, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes may persist for a few weeks.
