Infectious mononucleosis (CMV)

Alternative names:

acute acquired cytomegalovirus infection; mononucleosis - CMV

Treatment:

Most patients recover within 4 to 6 weeks without medication. There is no specific treatment available; antiviral medications do not help. Rest is needed, sometimes for a month or longer to regain full activity levels. Relief of symptoms is provided with analgesics, and warm salt water gargles for sore throat.

Expectations (prognosis):

Fever usually reduces in 10 days, and swollen lymph glands and spleen return to normal in 4 weeks. Fatigue may linger for 2 to 3 months.

Complications:

• secondary throat infection
• rupture of spleen (rare)
• neurologic complications (rare)

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate mononucleosis.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if sharp, sudden pain in left upper abdomen occurs. This could indicate a ruptured spleen, and require emergency surgery.