Mononucleosis spot test

Alternative names:

heterophil antibody test; mononuclear heterophil test; monospot test

What the risks are:

• excessive bleeding
• fainting or feeling lightheaded
• hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
• multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations:

Monospot tests are considered to be about 85% accurate.
Positive test results will not occur until 1 to 2 weeks into the illness.