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Mononucleosis

Mononucleosis Overview

Infectious mononucleosis (often called "mono") is a common viral infection that causes fever, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes. Mononucleosis is most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and it is most frequently diagnosed in teenagers and young adults.

Mononucleosis generally resolves without medical help, though it may last from weeks to months. Treatment is aimed at easing the symptoms of the illness, and it can usually be done at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications. Serious complications only rarely occur.



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Mononucleosis (mono) - Symptoms Experienced

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Mononucleosis

Sore Throat Overview

Sore throats are usually named for the anatomical site affected.

  • Pharyngitis: The pharynx, the area of your throat directly behind your mouth and soft palate, is a common hallway for food, liquids, and air. Swallowing safely delivers solids and liquids to the stomach through the esophagus. Pharyngitis is pain and inflammation of the pharynx.
  • Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis typically involves inflammation of the tonsils (tonsils are located on either side of the base of the tongue).
  • Laryngitis: The larynx, the top portion of your windpipe (trachea), has an important gatekeeper function. It allows passage of air in and out of the lungs (through the trachea), but bars the entry of solids and liquids. Sound production at the vocal cords is an important side job of the larynx. Laryngitis is pain and inflammation of the larynx (often associated with a hoars...

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Infectious Mononucleosis »

Infectious mononucleosis was first described by Sprunt and Evans in the Bulletin of the Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1920.

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