Is infectious mononucleosis deadly?

Occasionally, your spleen or liver may also swell, but mononucleosis is rarely ever fatal. Mono is hard to distinguish from other common viruses such as the flu. If your symptoms don’t improve after 1 or 2 weeks of home treatment such as resting, getting enough fluids, and eating healthy foods, see your doctor.

How long does it take to recover from infectious mononucleosis?

Most people get better in two to four weeks; however, some people may feel fatigued for several more weeks. Occasionally, the symptoms of infectious mononucleosis can last for six months or longer.

What is the most common complication of infectious mononucleosis?

What are the complications of infectious mononucleosis?

Ruptured spleen.
Kidney inflammation.
Hemolytic anemia.
Nervous system problems, such as encephalitis, meningitis, and other conditions.
Inflammation of the heart muscle.
Heart rhythm problems.
Obstruction of the upper airways.

What is the prognosis of infectious mononucleosis?

What is the prognosis of mono? Most people with mono recover completely with no long-term problems. The fatigue associated with the condition may persist for a few months after the fever and other symptoms have resolved. Severe complications as described above are very rare.

Can mono cause permanent liver damage?

Infectious mononucleosis is a largely benign disease process that occurs secondary to infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. However, it can also present with more serious complications, including auto-immune hemolytic anemia and acute liver failure.

What medication should always be avoided in patients with mononucleosis?

Amoxicillin and other antibiotics, including those made from penicillin, aren’t recommended for people with mononucleosis. In fact, some people with mononucleosis who take one of these drugs may develop a rash. The rash doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re allergic to the antibiotic, however.

What would happen if Mono is left untreated?

Mononucleosis may cause enlargement of the spleen. In extreme cases, your spleen may rupture, causing sharp, sudden pain in the left side of your upper abdomen. If such pain occurs, seek medical attention immediately — you may need surgery.

How many people are infected with infectious mononucleosis?

About 45 out of 100,000 people develop infectious mono each year in the United States. Nearly 95% of people have had an EBV infection by the time they are adults. The disease occurs equally at all times of the year. Mononucleosis was first described in the 1920s and colloquially known as “the kissing disease”.

Why is mononucleosis known as the “kissing disease”?

Mononucleosis, commonly referred to as “mono,” is called the kissing disease because it is spread through contact with an infected person’s saliva. Kissing is one way to catch the kissing disease, but it’s not the only way.

How do you diagnose mononucleosis?

One of the most reliable ways to diagnose mononucleosis is the monospot test (or heterophile test). This blood test looks for antibodies —these are proteins your immune system produces in response to harmful elements. However, it doesn’t look for EBV antibodies.