Feb 03 2009
How is Epstein Barr (mononucleosis or glandular fever) diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Epstein Barr – the virus that causes mononucleosis or glandular fever, is based on a persons age, symptoms and a physical exam. Confirmation of mononucleosis is made from laboratory tests including:
- the finding of atypical lymphocytes – a type of white blood cell, in the blood. In mononucleosis, these atypical lymphocytes make up more than 10% of total lymphocytes.
- increased total white blood cell count
- antibody tests like the mono spot test.
The mono spot test is a quick blood test that examines the patient’s blood for antibodies present against the virus. Moderate to high levels of these antibodies, called heterophile antibodies, are seen during the first month of infection. They then decrease rapidly after week 4. This screening test can give results within a day however may be negative in the first week of infection and may need to be repeated. Be aware that in children under 8 the mono test is often negative, despite them being infected with the Epstein Barr virus.
Further Epstein Barr virus can be ordered to diagnose mononucleosis in patients who show symptoms but have a negative Mono test. These antibody tests can also be used in pregnant women, immune compromised patients or adolescents who have been in close contact with a person who has had mononucleosis.
There are at least 5 Epstein Barr antibodies that can help determine if a person is susceptible to the virus (VCA-IgG), or if they have had a recent infection (VCA-IgM, VCA-IgG and EA-D), or have had an infection in the past (VCA-IgA and EBNA).
Other associated tests for Epstein Barr
Other tests to evaluate the extent of the disease and any complications include platelet blood count, liver function tests and swabs for strep throat. Other viruses like toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, rubella, hepatitis or HIV can produce a mononucleosis like illness, so if Epstein Barr tests appear negative these viruses may need to be investigated.
If you have been diagnosed with Epstein Barr virus, then the most effective approach is to support your immune system with vitamins, minerals, herbs, an immune-boosting diet, homeopathy, essential oils and stress reduction. These therapies are discussed in the e-book “Nature’s Amazing Mononucleosis Cures” by qualified naturopath Elizabeth Noble.
3 responses so far
My fellow on Facebook shared this link and I’m not dissapointed at all that I came here.
Hi
I really thought I had ‘Mono’ when I happened upon this website and read it but with various blood tests, I found out that I had the Cytomegalovirus. The symptoms I had were the same, just not as severe. And even so, I have had the symptoms since January (its now June), been on sick leave from work for 7 weeks now and I am still having symptoms. Is there any timeline when I can expect to get better? I am so frustrated! For a couple days, I’d feel like I’m improving, then the day after I’d be right back to having the aching legs and back and the fatigued feeling.
On my Doctor’s recommendation, I rested… and rested… and rested – to no avail. I admit that I have problems sleeping (I sleep for 5-6.5hrs per night – seems like enough to me) as I go to sleep fine but wake at 2 or 3am and then toss and turn until 6am. So I wake in the morning feeling exhausted – so I started taking OTC sleeping aids (unisom). Well, I started sleeping 8-10 hrs a night with it and only then I started to feel a bit better.
I am now feeling 75% better and have gone back to work but after 1 week I am exhausted in the mornings again (getting 6 hrs sleep). I don’t want to get hooked on the sleepings tabs. Can you recommmend any help?
I am also taking vitamins (Vit C, B-Complex, Magnesium, Calcium, Vit D and Melatonin). On the weekends I also take a tablet containing Valerian and Camomile to help relax my stiff leg muscles.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Dale,
Sorry you have been suffering from cytomegalovirus. The symptoms and treatment are the same as for the Epstein Barr virus that causes mono.
It sounds like you have been taking some excellent supplements. I would also add some zinc and fish oils for their immune boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. A good night’s sleep is essential for a complete recovery so work on ways to help you sleep. An Epsom salt bath before bed, lavender oil on your pillow and sleep herbs like camomile, valerian, passionfruit and hops are all worth trying. Waking up at 2 or 3 am often indicates an overworked liver so some gentle liver cleansing may be beneficial.
I hope these ideas help.
Elizabeth