Overview
Introduction
Infectious mononucleosis is usually the clinical syndrome produced by primary infection with Epstein Barr virus (EBV).
Infectious mononucleosis is usually the clinical syndrome produced by primary infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV enters through the oropharynx, infects epithelial cells and B lymphocytes, and then remains latent in the body. The resulting immune response produces fever, pharyngitis, lymphadenopathy, atypical lymphocytes, and often striking fatigue. For the LVN/LPN, the diagnosis is less important than recognizing the pattern and identifying what changes the priority. A patient with uncomplicated fatigue and sore throat needs hydration, symptom relief, and activity precautions. A patient who cannot handle secretions, develops sudden left-upper-quadrant pain, or becomes hypotensive needs immediate escalation.