Do I Have Glandular Fever (Mono)?

Infectious mononucleosis (also known as glandular fever, Pfeiffer’s disease, Filatov’s disease, the kissing disease, or simply mono) is an infectious disease that is usually caused by oral transmission of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV is one of the most common viruses to affect humans. In fact, more than 90% of adults have contracted this common form of the herpes virus at some point in their lives, although usually as children. Once an individual becomes infected with the virus, it will remain in their body for the rest of their lives, even after symptoms have ceased. As a result of the initial infection, however, the body develops immunity to the virus. So although it will continue to go through both active and dormant cycles, it is unlikely that it will ever manifesting itself again in the form of visible symptoms. 

The incubation period for glandular fever is typically one or two months. This means that symptoms may not appear until four to eight weeks after contact with the saliva, mucus, or tears of an individual who carries the virus. Children who contract glandular fever typically experience only mild, flu-like symptoms. Young adults, however, may experience more severe symptoms such as fever, sore throat, nausea, chronic fatigue, and weakness. Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands) in the neck and under the armpits are also common signs. In fact, the tonsils can sometimes become so inflamed that tonsillitis develops as well. A more serious, but less frequent, symptom of glandular fever is a swollen spleen which may result in pain to the upper left region of the stomach. Individuals experiencing this symptom should consult their doctor or visit an emergency room immediately as it could be an indication that the spleen that is about to burst. 

Most adults who have contracted glandular fever in their youth and who possess a healthy immune system will not exhibit any symptoms, even when the virus is active within their body. When adult patients do exhibit symptoms, however, they are less likely to experience a sore throat or swollen glands. Instead they are more likely to suffer from an infected liver which causes outward signs of jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin.

Glandular fever is most often diagnosed based on observance of the signs and symptoms, such as an enlarged spleen or liver and swollen lymph nodes or tonsils. A diagnostic blood test, however, may be performed by your doctor to detect antibodies to the EBV or a higher than normal white blood cell count, both of which are indicative of infection. While there is no cure for glandular fever, rest and drinking plenty of fluids are the most recommended treatments to alleviate the symptoms. Painkillers that do not contain aspirin and can be purchased over-the counter, such as ibuprofen, may also help to reduce fever and pain symptoms.