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Usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), it usually runs its course quickly and rarely produces any serious complications. For this reason, it is particularly difficult to diagnose in the early stages of the illness, although the diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and a physical exam. Symptoms usually disappear within 2-4 weeks, with fatigue sometimes lingering longer.
Treatment There are no conventional medical treatments to cure mononucleosis, only those that help manage the symptoms. Contact sports should be avoided while the spleen is enlarged. Possible complications include:- Secondary throat infection
- Rupture of spleen (rare) - avoid pressure on the spleen
- Neurological complications (rare) - seizures, ataxia, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Bell's palsy
- Hepatitis with jaundice (more common in patients older than 35)
- Hemolytic anemia
- Death in immunocompromised individuals.
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