Infectious Mononucleosis: The 'Kissing Disease'

Severe sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, profound fatigue, sometimes hepatitis or splenomegaly.

Diagnosis

Heterophile antibodies (Monospot) and EBV-specific serology. Lymphocytosis with atypical lymphocytes.

Management

Rest, hydration, paracetamol. Avoid contact sports for 4 weeks because of splenic rupture risk. Avoid amoxicillin: it causes a non-allergic rash in EBV.

Long view

Fatigue can persist for weeks. EBV reactivation is implicated in some chronic conditions including multiple sclerosis.

Splenomegaly is the main short-term concern: return to sport requires medical clearance.