Mononucleosis, or mono, is a viral disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It comes with symptoms like fever, swollen glands, and a sore throat. The term “infectious mononucleosis” got its start in the 1920s, describing college students. These students had similar throat problems and specific changes in their blood. Almost all adults worldwide will test positive for EBV antibodies. Mono is most common in young adults aged 15 to 24, teens often get it as well. Doctors diagnose mono using symptoms and specific lab tests. Treatment focuses on rest and easing discomfort, but steroids are used in severe cases.
Key Takeaways:
- Mononucleosis, also known as infectious mononucleosis or mono, is a viral disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
- Symptoms of mononucleosis include fever, sore throat, lymphadenopathy, and fatigue.
- The diagnosis of mononucleosis is based on clinical signs and symptoms, as well as laboratory tests.
- Treatment for mononucleosis is primarily supportive, with rest and symptomatic relief.
- Stem cell therapy is an innovative option being explored for the treatment of mononucleosis.
Symptoms of Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis, commonly known as mono, can show a variety of symptoms. These symptoms may differ in how serious they are from one person to another. Among the most usual are:
- Fever: Many with mono get a high fever, often between 39.5 to 40.5 degrees Celsius. This fever usually peaks in the afternoon or early evening.
- Sore Throat: The sore throat is intense and can feel a lot like streptococcal pharyngitis.
- Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes, mainly in the front and back of the neck, are also quite common.
- Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired is a key sign of mono. Some may feel this way for weeks or months.
Among the main symptoms, mono can also lead to other issues, like:
- Hepatosplenomegaly: This is when the liver and spleen are larger than normal. Some mono patients may experience this.
- Headache: Headaches are a typical complaint in those suffering from mono.
- Malaise: A sense of general discomfort, often linked with fatigue, is a frequent feeling.
- Poor Oral Intake: Sore throat and fatigue can make eating or drinking hard for some.
Finally, mono may also lead to some less common symptoms. These can include red spots on the soft palate or a rash known as a maculopapular rash.
Causes and Epidemiology of Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis, or mono, comes from the Epstein-Barr virus. This is a type of herpesvirus spread mostly through infected saliva. Yet, other viruses like cytomegalovirus (CMV) and adenovirus can cause mono symptoms too. So can hepatitis A, HIV, toxoplasma, and rubella.
How common mono is changes around the world. About 95% of adults will test positive for EBV at some point, showing they’ve been exposed. Mono hits hardest in the 15 to 24-year-old age range, with teens getting it more often. But in adults, mono is rare, making up just 2% of throat diseases.
The chance of getting mono is not the same for everyone, especially in the U.S. Evidence shows more white people get sick with mono than Black people. This might be because Black individuals are more likely to have already been exposed to EBV, getting the infection but not feeling any symptoms as children.
Risk Factors
- Age: Adolescents and young adults have a higher risk of developing symptomatic mononucleosis.
- Exposure to Herpesviruses: Close contact with infected individuals or exposure to their saliva increases the risk of contracting EBV or other herpesviruses.
- Immunocompromised State: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, are more susceptible to developing mononucleosis.
Prevention
Stopping mono’s spread means being careful about saliva. Here’s how to lower the risk:
- Avoid close contact like kissing or sharing food and drinks with someone who has mono.
- Wash your hands often with soap, especially after being around saliva.
- When you cough or sneeze, use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose.
- Clean surfaces that could have infected saliva on them frequently.
Following these steps can help keep mono from spreading. This reduces how many people get sick.
Stem Cell Therapy for Mononucleosis
Scientists are looking into using stem cells to manage mononucleosis. This treatment is still in its early research stages. Stem cell therapy shows promise in boosting the immune system and fixing tissues damaged by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
They are studying stem cells from different places. These include umbilical cord blood and fat. These stem cells can change into various cell types. They help repair and grow new tissues. Scientists want to use this ability to make better treatments for mononucleosis.
But, more research is needed to make sure stem cell therapy is safe and works against mononucleosis. This ongoing study looks at the best amount, how to give it, and any risks. Still, using stem cell therapy gives hope for a better way to help people with mononucleosis.