Mononucleosis (Mono) Tests

Mononucleosis (mono) is an infectious disease caused by viruses, including: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is the most common cause; Cytomegalovirus; Toxoplasmosis; HIV; Rubella; Hepatitis A, B, C; Adenovirus; These viruses are commonly spread through body fluids. Mono is sometimes called the kissing disease because it is spread through saliva. So, besides kissing, you can get it if you share a fork, spoon, drinking glass, straw, food, toothbrush, or lip balm with a person who has mono.

These viruses can also spread through blood and semen during sexual contact, blood transfusions, and organ transplants. EBV is a type of herpes virus that is very common. Most people get infected with EBV at some point in their lives, but only some of them will get symptoms of mono.

Many people become infected with EBV in childhood. EBV infections in children usually do not cause symptoms. But when they do, it's difficult to tell the difference between the symptoms of mono and the symptoms of other childhood illnesses such as the flu.

Teens and young adults, though, are more likely to get mono. In fact, at least one out of four teens and young adults who get EBV will develop mono. They are also more likely to have symptoms that are typical of mono, such as: Extreme fatigue; Fever; Sore throat; Swollen lymph nodes in the neck; Enlarged spleen; Swollen liver; Rash; Mono is rarely serious, but symptoms can linger for weeks or months.

Mono is typically diagnosed based on your symptoms. However, in some cases, specific lab tests may be needed to identify the cause of illness. An example would be if someone is having severe or life-threatening illness.

Types of mono tests include: Monospot test. This test looks for specific antibodies in the blood. These antibodies show up during or after certain infections, including mono.; EBV antibody test.

This test looks for EBV antibodies, the main cause of mono. There are different types of EBV antibodies. If certain types of antibodies are found, it may mean you were infected recently.

Other types of EBV antibodies may mean you were infected in the past.;

Why this test is done

Your provider may order one or more mono tests if you or your child has symptoms of mono. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Swollen glands, especially in the neck and/or armpits
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Rash
• Enlarged liver, spleen, or both
• Swollen tonsils

An enlarged spleen and a swollen liver are less common symptoms. For some people, their liver or spleen, or both, may still be enlarged even after their fatigue ends.

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

How to prepare

You don't need any special preparations for a fingertip blood test or blood test from a vein.

Sample type

Blood

Other names for this test

monospot test, mononuclear heterophile test, heterophile antibody test, EBV antibody test, Epstein-Barr virus antibody test, mononucleosis spot test