The Mouth, Tonsils, and Adenoids Condition (Glandular fever)

What is Glandular fever?

Glandular fever is also known as infectious mononucleosis or EpsteinBarr virus infection. It is common in teenagers and young adults. Patients with glandular fever may present a similar picture to patients with acute bacterial tonsillities, but with a slightly longer of symtoms. Diagnosis relies upon a positive monospot or Paul-Bunnell blood test, but early in the course of the disease this test can still show up negative.

Signs and Symptoms

- Sore throat
- Pyrexia
- Cervical Lymphadenopathy
- White slough on tonsils
- Petechial haemorrhages on the palate
- Marked widespread lymphadenopathy
- Hepatosplenomegaly

Treatment

This is self limiting condition for which there is no cure as such. Treatment is largely supportive with painkillers, although patients may appreciate a short course of corticosteroids to decrease swelling. IV fluids may be necessary if they cannot drink enough.

Complications

Patients should be advised to refrain from contact sports for six weeks because of the risk of a ruptured spleen. This can lead to life threatening internal bleeding.