Rapid Mononucleosis Test
A rapid mononucleosis or ‘mono’ test is used for the qualitative detection of infectious mononucleosis antibodies (Epstein-Barr virus) in whole blood, serum or plasma. The test is performed by collecting a blood sample from the patient experiencing symptoms suggestive of mononucleosis.
The test is performed in minutes and can be conducted on nearly any age patient. It takes approximately 5-10 minutes to process.
The test is fairly accurate for detecting the virus (usually 71%-90%) but can produce a false negative since some patients do not produce the antibodies that the test detects. The test result can also be false-negative if testing was conducted too soon. The window for testing is generally 1-2 weeks after illness/symptoms have started. Your healthcare provider may repeat the test to make sure you actually have mono.
Common symptoms of mononucleosis
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extreme fatigue.
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fever.
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sore throat.
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head and body aches.
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swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits.
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swollen liver or spleen or both.
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rash