Glandular Fever

Glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis, is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is a common illness that affects people of all ages, but it is most prevalent among teenagers and young adults.

What is Glandular Fever?

Glandular fever is a type of infectious mononucleosis, which means that it is caused by a virus that infects the mononuclear cells in the blood. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the primary cause of glandular fever, and it is usually spread through saliva, mucus, and other bodily fluids. The virus can also be spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants.

Symptoms of Glandular Fever

The symptoms of glandular fever can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits
• Fatigue and weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats
• Headaches
• Muscle aches and pains
• Splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen)
• Hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver)

Diagnosis of Glandular Fever

Glandular fever is typically diagnosed based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. The most common diagnostic tests include:

• Monospot test: This is a rapid test that detects the presence of heterophile antibodies in the blood.
• EBV antibody test: This test measures the levels of EBV antibodies in the blood.
• Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the levels of different types of blood cells, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.

Treatments for Glandular Fever

There is no specific treatment for glandular fever, but symptoms can be managed with:

• Rest and relaxation: Getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities can help the body recover from the infection.
• Pain relief medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate headaches, fever, and muscle aches.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections, such as strep throat.
• Corticosteroids: In severe cases of glandular fever, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling in the throat and tonsils.

Complications of Glandular Fever

In rare cases, glandular fever can lead to complications such as:

• Splenomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen can increase the risk of rupture, which can be life-threatening.
• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver can occur in some cases of glandular fever.
• Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells can occur due to the infection.
• Neurological problems: In rare cases, glandular fever can cause neurological problems such as meningitis, encephalitis, or Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Prevention of Glandular Fever

There is no vaccine available to prevent glandular fever, but the risk of infection can be reduced by:

• Avoiding close contact with people who have the infection
• Not sharing food, drinks, or utensils with someone who has the infection
• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly
• Avoiding blood transfusions and organ transplants from donors who have the infection