BABY AND CHILDHOOD INFECTIOUS DISEASES: GLANDULAR FEVER

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BABY AND CHILDHOOD DISORDERS OF THE PANCREAS: DIABETES »

BABY AND CHILDHOOD INFECTIOUS DISEASES: GLANDULAR FEVER

This simple-sounding disorder also has the impressive name of infectious mononucleosis (a name with which you can confound your friends and bank manager, I feel sure; you might even get an increased bank overdraft). It is caused by a virus called the Epstein-Barr virus, and is often contacted during childhood. In many cases, no symptoms occur then, but do in later years. The most common time for symptoms is in girls in the 15-25 age group. But nobody is immune. It is not highly contagious, and occurs in between two and six persons per 10000 of the population. Incubation period— the time elapsing between the time of infection and the onset of symptoms—is between 7 and 49 days.

Three main symptoms occur: a sore throat, swollen glands in the neck (and later elsewhere), and a fever. Often this is preceded by the patient feeling generally off-colour. The tongue and often the tonsils become coated with a creamy discharge. Breath is unpleasant, nose congested, and tiny lymph glands under the jaw and in front of the neck swell and become tender.

As the illness develops, the liver and spleen (two large organs in the upper part of the abdomen) swell, and tenderness in this region is common.

Lack of appetite, feeling unwell in a vague sort of way, lack of energy, aches all over the body, nausea, sweating and general abdominal discomfort are typical symptoms. Occasionally there is a red rash, especially on those who have been given penicillin. Sometimes a mild jaundice may occur (the whites of the eyes and the skin turn yellow). Depression, headaches, fatigue and inability to concentrate are common symptoms that often persist for many weeks, and often months. A simple blood test usually gives the doctor the diagnosis.

Treatment

This illness is a self-limiting one and invariably cures itself. It simply takes time. Bed, fluids and adequate nutrition are necessary. Small, attractively prepared meals, emphasizing foods the patient normally likes, are the best idea. Gargling the throat with warm salty water gives relief from the sore throat. Analgesics and antipyretics aimed at reducing elevated temperatures and relieving aches and pains are given. There is no single drug that will magically bring about a cure. Vitamins aimed at increasing the body’s general health and vitality are often prescribed. Proper medical supervision is recommended with any of the symptoms that suggest this disorder.

Infectivity is low but appears to be spread via the saliva; therefore, kissing and sharing drinking utensils should be avoided until the patient is cured.

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