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Mononucleosis - Infectious mononucleosis (Paediatrics)

Low urgency
Very common-

Infection of viral origin, also known as "kissing disease".

It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is transmitted through saliva.

It presents with a triad of symptoms: fever, sore throat and inflammation of lymph nodes. A rupture of the spleen can also occur, although this is less common, as can life-threatening obstruction of the airways.

It is diagnosed by clinical history and physical examination and confirmed by blood culture.

There is no specific treatment. Symptoms are treated and it is advisable to avoid extreme sports if the spleen is enlarged.

Bibliographic references
  1. Mark D Aronson, Paul G Auwaerter. Infectious mononucleosis in adults and adolescents. UpToDate Aug 26, 2016.
  2. Vetsika EK, Callan M. Infectious mononucleosis and Epstein-Barr virus. Expert Rev Mol Med 2004; 6:1.
  3. Heath CW Jr, Brodsky AL, Potolsky AI. Infectious mononucleosis in a general population. Am J Epidemiol 1972; 95:46.
  4. Higgins CD, Swerdlow AJ, Macsween KF, et al. A study of risk factors for acquisition of Epstein-Barr virus and its subtypes. J Infect Dis 2007; 195:474.
  5. G. Verger. Infecciones por el virus de Epstein-Barr: mononucleosis infecciosa. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 2465:2466.
  6. Jeffrey I. Cohen. Infecciones causadas por el virus de Epstei-Barr, incluída mononucleosis infecciosa. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19ª Edición. 1186: 1190.
Author
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Swollen neck glands

    Fever between 39ºC and 39.9ºC

    Sore throat

    Fever / Feel very hot

    Tiredness / fatigue

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Abdominal pain that increases rapidly
History of immunodeficiency (HIV, diabetes mellitus, oncological disorders, long-term corticosteroid consumption).

Self-care

Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Maintain hydration of 2 litres per day.
Consume over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics in case of muscle pain or fever (Tº > 38ºC).
Do not take antibiotics without medical advice.
Do not do any physical activity for a month from the onset of the symptoms.
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