What kind of disease is mononucleosis?

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Infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis (otherwise called benign lymphoblastosis, Filatov's disease) is an acute viral infection characterized by predominant damage to the oropharynx and lymph nodes, spleen and liver.

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A specific sign of the disease is the appearance of characteristic cells in the blood - atypical mononuclear cells. The causative agent of infectious mononucleosis is the Epstein-Barr virus, which belongs to the herpesvirus family. Its transmission from the patient is carried out by aerosol. Typical symptoms of infectious mononucleosis are general infectious phenomena, tonsillitis, polyadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly; maculopapular rashes are possible on various areas of the skin.

Infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis (otherwise called benign lymphoblastosis, Filatov's disease) is an acute viral infection characterized by predominant damage to the oropharynx and lymph nodes, spleen and liver.

A specific sign of the disease is the appearance of characteristic cells in the blood - atypical mononuclear cells. The spread of infection is widespread, seasonality has not been identified, and there is an increased incidence during puberty (girls and boys). The incidence after 40 years is extremely rare, with the exception of HIV-infected individuals, who may develop a manifestation of a latent infection at any age. In case of infection with the virus in early childhood, the disease proceeds as an acute respiratory infection, while at an older age - without severe symptoms. In adults, the clinical course of the disease is practically not observed, since most people have developed specific immunity.

Causes of infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (a DNA virus of the Lymphocryptovirus genus). The virus belongs to the herpesvirus family, but unlike them, it does not cause the death of the host cell (the virus mainly multiplies in B lymphocytes), but stimulates its growth. In addition to infectious mononucleosis, the Epstein-Barr virus causes Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

The reservoir and source of infection is a sick person or a carrier of infection. The virus is released by sick people starting from the last days of the incubation period and lasts 6-18 months. The virus is released in saliva. In% of healthy people with a positive test for specific antibodies, the pathogen is detected in swabs from the oropharynx.

The transmission mechanism of the Epstein-Barr virus is aerosol, the predominant route of transmission is airborne droplets, it can be transmitted by contact (kissing, sexual contact, dirty hands, dishes, household items). In addition, the virus can be transmitted through blood transfusion and intrapartum from mother to child. People have a high natural susceptibility to infection, but when infected, mild and indolent clinical forms predominantly develop. The insignificant incidence among children under one year of age indicates the presence of innate passive immunity. Severe course and generalization of infection is facilitated by immunodeficiency.

Pathogenesis of infectious mononucleosis

The Epstein-Barr virus is inhaled by a person and infects the epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract, oropharynx (promoting the development of moderate inflammation in the mucous membrane), from there the pathogen enters the regional lymph nodes with the lymph flow, causing lymphadenitis. When the virus enters the blood, it invades B lymphocytes, where it begins active replication. Damage to B lymphocytes leads to the formation of specific immune reactions and pathological deformation of cells. The pathogen spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream. Due to the fact that the virus invades immune cells and immune processes play a significant role in pathogenesis, the disease is classified as AIDS-associated. The Epstein-Barr virus persists in the human body for life, periodically being activated against the background of a general decrease in immunity.

Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis

The incubation period varies widely: from 5 days to one and a half months. Sometimes nonspecific prodromal phenomena (weakness, malaise, catarrhal symptoms) may be observed. In such cases, there is a gradual increase in symptoms, the malaise intensifies, the temperature rises to low-grade levels, nasal congestion and sore throat are noted. On examination, hyperemia of the oropharyngeal mucosa is revealed, and the tonsils may be enlarged.

In case of acute onset of the disease, fever, chills, increased sweating develop, symptoms of intoxication are noted (muscle aches, headache), patients complain of a sore throat when swallowing. Fever can persist from several days to a month, and the course (type of fever) can vary.

After a week, the disease usually enters the peak phase: all the main clinical symptoms appear (general intoxication, tonsillitis, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly). The patient's condition usually worsens (symptoms of general intoxication worsen); the throat has a characteristic picture of catarrhal, ulcerative-necrotic, membranous or follicular sore throat: intense hyperemia of the mucous membrane of the tonsils, yellowish, loose plaque (sometimes like diphtheria). Hyperemia and granularity of the posterior pharyngeal wall, follicular hyperplasia, possible mucosal hemorrhages.

In the first days of the disease, polyadenopathy occurs. Enlarged lymph nodes can be detected in almost any group accessible to palpation; the occipital, posterior cervical and submandibular nodes are most often affected. To the touch, the lymph nodes are dense, mobile, painless (or the pain is mild). Sometimes there may be moderate swelling of the surrounding tissue.

At the height of the disease, most patients develop hepatolienal syndrome - the liver and spleen are enlarged, yellowness of the sclera and skin, dyspepsia, and darkening of urine may occur. In some cases, maculopapular rashes of various localizations are observed. The rash is short-lived, is not accompanied by subjective sensations (itching, burning) and does not leave behind any residual effects.

The height of the disease usually takes about 2-3 weeks, after which the clinical symptoms gradually subside and a period of convalescence begins. Body temperature returns to normal, signs of sore throat disappear, and the liver and spleen return to their normal size. In some cases, signs of adenopathy and low-grade fever may persist for several weeks.

Infectious mononucleosis can acquire a chronic relapsing course, as a result of which the duration of the disease increases to one and a half years or more. The course of mononucleosis in adults is usually gradual, with a prodromal period and less severe clinical symptoms. Fever rarely lasts more than 2 weeks, lymphadenopathy and tonsil hyperplasia are mild, but symptoms associated with a functional disorder of the liver (jaundice, dyspepsia) are more common.

Complications of infectious mononucleosis

Complications of infectious mononucleosis are mainly associated with the development of an associated secondary infection (staphylococcal and streptococcal lesions). Meningoencephalitis and obstruction of the upper respiratory tract by hypertrophied tonsils may occur. Children may experience severe hepatitis, and sometimes (rarely) interstitial bilateral infiltration of the lungs develops. Rare complications also include thrombocytopenia; overstretching of the lienal capsule can provoke rupture of the spleen.

Diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis

Nonspecific laboratory diagnostics include a thorough examination of the cellular composition of the blood. A general blood test shows moderate leukocytosis with a predominance of lymphocytes and monocytes and relative neutropenia, a shift in the leukocyte formula to the left. Large cells of various shapes with wide basophilic cytoplasm appear in the blood - atypical mononuclear cells. For the diagnosis of mononucleosis, it is significant to increase the content of these cells in the blood to 10-12%; often their number exceeds 80% of all white blood elements. When examining blood in the first days, mononuclear cells may be absent, which, however, does not exclude the diagnosis. Sometimes these cells can take 2-3 weeks to form. The blood picture usually gradually returns to normal during the period of convalescence, while atypical mononuclear cells often persist.

Specific virological diagnostics are not used due to laboriousness and irrationality, although it is possible to isolate the virus in swabs from the oropharynx and identify its DNA using PCR. There are serological diagnostic methods: antibodies to the VCA antigens of the Epstein-Barr virus are detected. Serum immunoglobulins type M are often detected during the incubation period, and at the height of the disease they are observed in all patients and disappear no earlier than 2-3 days after recovery. The detection of these antibodies serves as a sufficient diagnostic criterion for infectious mononucleosis. After an infection, specific immunoglobulins G are present in the blood and remain for life.

Patients with infectious mononucleosis (or persons suspected of having this infection) undergo serological testing three times (the first time during the period of acute infection, and twice more at an interval of three months) to detect HIV infection, since it may also include the presence of mononuclear cells in the blood. To differentiate a sore throat in infectious mononucleosis from tonsillitis of other etiologies, consultation with an otolaryngologist and pharyngoscopy is necessary.

Treatment of infectious mononucleosis

Mild and moderate infectious mononucleosis is treated on an outpatient basis; bed rest is recommended in cases of severe intoxication and severe fever. If there are signs of liver dysfunction, diet No. 5 according to Pevzner is prescribed.

There is currently no etiotropic treatment; the complex of indicated measures includes detoxification, desensitization, restorative therapy and symptomatic remedies, depending on the available clinic. Severe hypertoxic course, threat of asphyxia when the larynx is compressed by hyperplastic tonsils are an indication for short-term prescription of prednisolone.

Antibiotic therapy is prescribed for necrotizing processes in the pharynx in order to suppress the local bacterial flora and prevent secondary bacterial infections, as well as in case of existing complications (secondary pneumonia, etc.). The drugs of choice are penicillins, ampicillin and oxacillin, and tetracycline antibiotics. Sulfonamide drugs and chloramphenicol are contraindicated due to the side inhibitory effect on the hematopoietic system. Splenic rupture is an indication for emergency splenectomy.

Forecast and prevention of infectious mononucleosis

Uncomplicated infectious mononucleosis has a favorable prognosis; dangerous complications that can significantly aggravate it occur quite rarely in this disease. Residual effects in the blood are a reason for clinical observation for 6-12 months.

Preventive measures aimed at reducing the incidence of infectious mononucleosis are similar to those for acute respiratory infectious diseases; individual measures of nonspecific prevention consist of increasing immunity, both with the help of general health measures and with the use of mild immunoregulators and adaptogens in the absence of contraindications. Specific prevention (vaccination) for mononucleosis has not been developed. Emergency preventive measures are applied to children who have been in contact with the patient and consist of prescribing a specific immunoglobulin. The area where the disease is occurring is thoroughly cleaned and personal belongings are disinfected.

Infectious mononucleosis - treatment in Moscow

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Mononucleosis - what it is and how it is treated

Mononucleosis is an acute infection that affects the body's lymphatic system. The disease occurs with acute fever, sometimes enlarging the spleen and liver. It leads to sore throat and decreased immunity. It is now known for sure that the Epstein Barr virus almost always causes infectious mononucleosis. Doctors classify it as a herpes infection. The source of the spread of the disease is a sick person, and infection occurs through direct contact, through contaminated household items or by airborne droplets.

Causes of mononucleosis

The mechanisms of transmission of mononucleosis are simple: through saliva, mucus, tears. The disease is also transmitted through kissing, which is why the infection is nicknamed “kissing disease.” The virus, once settled in the body, remains there forever, and even if it is not active, it is easily transmitted to other people. The main causes of mononucleosis in humans are:

  • weak immunity;
  • severe mental or physical stress;
  • suffered stress;
  • failure to comply with hygiene rules;
  • use of shared linen, dishes, and towels.

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Symptoms and signs of the disease

Mononucleosis infection in a patient is characterized by the following symptoms of the disease:

  1. Fever. The temperature rises, which means the development of microbial activity or their poisons in the human body. Chills and increased sweating occur.
  2. Angina. There is a sore throat when swallowing, an inflammatory process in the mucous membranes and enlarged tonsils.
  3. Damage to the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes and the tissue around them enlarge, usually under the jaw, which indicates the spread of the source of infection.
  4. Damage to the spleen and liver. This provokes pain of varying degrees in the abdominal area. By the 10th day of illness, jaundice of the skin may be observed.
  5. Skin rash. Disappears after the acute symptoms of mononucleosis subside.
  6. Change in blood picture. It is diagnosed by a doctor after taking tests by the presence of mononuclear cells in the blood, as well as an increase in lymphocytes and monocytes.
  7. Pathology of the muscles of the heart and pancreas. Occurs in severe forms of infectious mononucleosis in children with reduced immunity.

Methods for treating mononucleosis disease

Viral mononucleosis is a self-limiting infection, so even without treatment, the disease can gradually go away on its own. But in order for the infection to pass faster without developing into a chronic form, and for the risk of complications to be minimal, sick people are recommended to carry out certain treatment as prescribed by the doctor. Mononucleosis is easily treated at home, with bed rest and diet prescribed, but doctors have not yet developed special therapy for this disease.

Drug treatment

  1. "Acyclovir". Since mononucleosis is a viral infection, doctors recommend taking antiviral drugs that reduce the secretion of the Epstein-Barr virus. Acyclovir is prescribed to adult patients 200 mg 5 times a day. The period of treatment of the disease with the drug is 5 days. The dose for children under 2 years of age is half the adult dose, but requires constant medical supervision. During pregnancy, the use of the drug is possible only in exceptional cases.
  2. "Viferon". Refers not only to antiviral, but also to immunomodulatory drugs. The medicine increases immunity, helping the body fight the disease. Viferon ointment or gel is prescribed for the first or recurrent infections of the mucous membranes for external use. It has an effect on the mucous membrane of the affected area, to which it is applied in a thin layer 3 times a day for one week.
  3. "Paracetamol". Removes pain syndromes associated with mononucleosis of various origins (fever, headache). Directions for use: 1-2 tablets 4 times/day for 3-4 days.
  4. "Faryngosept". An anesthetic drug that helps relieve the symptoms of atypical sore throat. Prescribe 4 tablets/day, which should be dissolved until dissolved. The course of treatment lasts 3-4 days.

Folk remedies against the virus

Symptoms of viral mononucleosis are alleviated using the following folk recipes:

  1. Cabbage decoction. The presence of large amounts of vitamin C allows you to quickly relieve the symptoms of fever. To do this, wash the cabbage leaves, cover them with water and cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Then let the broth sit until it cools, and take 100 ml every hour until your body temperature drops.
  2. To reduce sore throat, you need to gargle it with a decoction of chamomile and rose hips. To prepare it, take 150 g of dried chamomile flowers, 1 tbsp. l. pharmaceutical rose hips, brew in a thermos, let it brew for 2 hours. Then gargle every 1-1.5 hours until it is completely restored.
  3. To reduce intoxication of the body and increase immunity during a viral disease, you need to prepare a decoction of calendula flowers, chamomile sage. To do this, take fresh or dry herbs in equal proportions, pour boiling water over them and place in a water bath for 15 minutes. After the broth has cooled, drink 150 ml 3 times a day until complete recovery.

Possible complications and consequences

The disease is dangerous due to its complications. The virus has oncogenic activity, which is why after mononucleosis you should not be in the sun for 3-4 months. Although mononucleosis infection very rarely ends in death, it is possible that after the disease the development of inflammation of the brain, bilateral lung damage with severe oxygen starvation. Rarely, but with severe disease, splenic rupture is possible. In immunocompromised children, infectious mononucleosis can lead to hepatitis, the main symptom of which is jaundice.

Forecast and prevention of the disease

In 90% of cases of detection of the infectious disease mononucleosis, the prognosis is favorable. However, after an infection, the body remains weak. A decrease in immunity due to illness can last up to 6 months, so general strengthening of the body is indicated: regular rinsing of the throat and nose with herbal decoctions, hardening, taking vitamin complexes, proper nutrition, and frequent exposure to fresh air.

Which doctor should I contact to diagnose the disease?

An infectious disease specialist treats mononucleosis. This specialist is easy to find in any infectious diseases hospital of a city or regional scale. The doctor is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of mononucleosis and other viral diseases. He studies the causes of the disease and the mechanism of development of infection in each individual case, determining the clinical picture using bacterial cultures, blood and urine tests, biochemical studies, ultrasound, x-rays, electrocardiography, and irrigoscopy.

Video: how mononucleosis is transmitted and how to cure it

Childhood mononucleosis most often develops after the age of 10 years, and infants under 1 year of age practically do not suffer from this infectious disease. This is due to the fact that children at this age do not communicate with peers and with a large number of adults who are contagious. A viral disease usually enters a child’s body through the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, where its journey through the body begins. Let's watch in the video the opinion of the famous pediatrician Dr. Komarovsky on how best to treat infectious mononucleosis:

Reviews

Anastasia, 21 years old, Kemerovo:

I always thought that any increase in temperature and redness of the throat should be immediately treated with antibiotics. But mononucleosis returned to me once a year. The pharmacist at the pharmacy advised me to buy the antiviral Acyclovir, give up antibiotics, and often gargle with soda and salt. The disease went away already on the 3rd day.

Vladlen, 32 years old, Tula:

My 5-year-old son has enlarged tonsils, and the mucous membrane of his throat is covered with a white coating. Analgin did not help, the temperature remained at 38 for 2 days. The pediatrician diagnosed mononucleosis and prescribed Decatylene for the throat and rinsing the nose once an hour with warm saline solution. The next evening the temperature subsided, and a week later the son recovered from mononucleosis.

Nina, 54 years old, Moscow:

She never accepted medications, and when she fell ill with viral mononucleosis, she did not buy them. I took the advice of traditional medicine and lowered the temperature by wiping my body with a cloth soaked in a vinegar solution, gargling my throat every hour with chamomile infusion, and drinking tea with raspberries. After 2 days I was already healthy and went to work

The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and make recommendations for treatment based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

Source: http://sovets.net/3684-chto-za-bolezn-mononukleoz.html

Infectious mononucleosis: symptoms and treatment

Infectious mononucleosis - main symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Weakness
  • Skin rash
  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Enlarged spleen
  • Chills
  • Muscle weakness
  • Liver enlargement
  • Sweating
  • A sore throat
  • Pain when swallowing
  • Inflammation of the lymph nodes
  • Fever
  • Enlarged tonsils
  • Tonsillitis

Infectious mononucleosis is an acute infectious disease that is characterized primarily by damage to the lymphatic and reticuloendothelial systems. Infectious mononucleosis, the symptoms of which manifest themselves in the form of fever, polyadenitis and tonsillitis, in addition occurs with an enlargement of the spleen and liver, as well as leukocytosis with a predominance of basophilic mononuclear cells.

general description

The sources of the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis are a person suffering from this disease, as well as a virus carrier. As a rule, infection is transmitted by airborne droplets, but more often it occurs through saliva (for example, by kissing). Infection is often transmitted through blood transfusion. Release of the virus into the external environment occurs after a period of 18 months from the moment of primary infection, which was determined based on studies of material taken from the oropharynx. In the absence of clinical symptoms, the virus is released into the environment in periods.

As for the natural susceptibility to the disease in people, it is quite high, with a predominance of mild and erased forms. A very low incidence of infectious mononucleosis in children in the first year of life may indicate the presence of passive innate immunity. Meanwhile, immunodeficiency states predispose to generalization of infection (that is, to the spread of the pathological process).

Main epidemiological signs of infectious mononucleosis

The prevalence of the disease is widespread, with its registration mainly occurring in sporadic cases, and in some situations - in minor outbreaks. Due to the polymorphism of the clinical picture and the frequent occurrence of difficulties in diagnosing the disease, there is reason to point out the fact that the official figures for its registration do not reflect reality regarding the breadth of infectious spread.

Most often, adolescents are affected by the disease, with the maximum surge in incidence observed in girls and in boys. Given this circumstance, infectious mononucleosis is often defined as a “disease of students.”

As for other age categories, people over 40 years of age are rarely infected. HIV-infected people, due to the relevance of their immunodeficiency state, are susceptible to reactivation of the infection in its latent form, regardless of age. Infection of children in the category of early childhood occurs in the form of symptoms corresponding to a respiratory disease, while children of older ages do not show symptoms.

By age, most people have antibodies against the virus of the disease we are considering, which determines the rarity of the appearance of its clinically expressed forms among the adult population.

Regarding the time of year associated with outbreaks of infectious mononucleosis, it is noted that their registration is relevant throughout the year, and less often in the summer. Factors predisposing to infection are crowding and the use of shared linen and utensils. In addition, such factors include the closeness of everyday contacts.

Infectious mononucleosis: symptoms in adults

The duration of the incubation period can be about 5 days to one and a half months. A prodromal period is possible, which is characterized by the absence of a particular type of symptoms. In these cases, the development of the disease occurs gradually. So, for several days there is a low-grade fever and weakness, malaise and increased fatigue. The upper respiratory tract undergoes catarrhal changes: nasal congestion occurs, hyperemia and enlargement of the tonsils, and hyperemia of the oropharyngeal mucosa.

The acute onset of the disease is accompanied by a rapid rise in temperature, which can reach quite high levels. In addition, patients experience headaches and sore throats that occur when swallowing. They experience increased sweating and chills, and body aches occur. Subsequently, temperature readings may vary, and the duration of fever can range from several days to several months.

The end of the first week corresponds to the period at the height of the disease, during which all its main symptoms appear. This includes general toxic phenomena and tonsillitis, hepatolienal syndrome and lymphadenopathy. There is a deterioration in the patient's well-being, the temperature is high, in addition there are manifestations in the form of chills, body aches and headache. Nasal congestion is possible, nasal breathing becomes difficult, and the voice becomes nasal.

Damage to the pharynx is characterized by an increase in pain in the throat; a sore throat can also develop in one of its forms (catarrhal, membranous, follicular, ulcerative-necrotic). Mild severity is noted in the manifestations of hyperemia of the mucous membrane, the tonsils acquire a yellowish coating that is easily eliminated. Sometimes such plaques are similar to the plaques inherent in diphtheria. The mucous membrane of the soft palate can be characterized by the appearance of hemorrhagic elements on it; sharp hyperemia is noted in the area of ​​the posterior wall. In addition, it is characterized by graininess and looseness.

Most patients also experience an increase in the height of infectious mononucleosis with symptoms such as an enlarged spleen and liver. Sometimes icteric syndrome also develops with its characteristic increase in dyspeptic symptoms in the form of nausea and loss of appetite. The urine darkens, the skin and sclera become spawned (that is, yellow pigmentation, yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes appear). The concentration of bilirubin in the blood serum increases along with increased aminotransferase activity.

In some cases, a papular-spotty type of exanthema may appear, without a specific localization, without itching and without the need for its treatment. After it disappears, no traces of changes remain on the skin.

The period of the height of the disease, which is about 2-3 weeks, is followed by a period of convalescence with an improvement in the patient’s well-being, the gradual disappearance of hepatolienal syndrome and sore throat. Subsequently, we can talk about normalization of the lymph nodes. In general, the duration of this period is extremely individual; in some cases, lymphadenopathy and elevated temperature persist for several weeks.

The total duration of infectious mononucleosis can be protracted; alternating periods of remissions and exacerbations are possible for up to a year and a half.

Infectious mononucleosis: symptoms in children

As with the adult incidence of mononucleosis, infectious mononucleosis in children manifests itself in a slow fever, which is accompanied by characteristic swollen glands, sore throat, fatigue and some physical discomfort. Sore throat is caused by tonsillitis. As for other symptoms in children, here again there is a headache and runny nose, flushing and abdominal pain. The joints ache, swallowing is difficult. The gums become bleeding.

As a rule, symptoms last for several weeks, and can last for several months. Due to extreme fatigue, sick children need long periods of sleep.

The disease can occur in typical and atypical forms, which, in turn, are characterized by their own degree of severity. Young children suffer more severely from the disease; manifestations in the form of hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia and changes in the central nervous system are more pronounced. In the atypical form of the disease, tonsillitis, rashes and fever are absent as its defining symptoms.

Diagnosing infectious mononucleosis is difficult among bedridden patients due to the similarity of its symptoms with those of other types of diseases. The main symptom of this disease is the duration observed in its course. In addition, the disease can be determined based on symptoms in combination with two blood tests to detect heterophilic agglutinins and unusual lymphocytes, which in this case are detected in blood cells.

Treatment of infectious mononucleosis

Patients who have a mild to moderate form of the disease in question can be treated at home. In particular, they require bed rest, which is motivated by the significant severity of intoxication symptoms. It is possible to prescribe a diet for manifestations of hepatitis, which manifests itself in a mild form as a complication of the disease.

There is no specific therapy for this disease. The main measures to combat it are detoxification therapy. The absence of bacterial complications does not require the prescription of antibiotics. The hypertoxic course of the disease, including a disease with the threat of asphyxia due to enlarged tonsils and pharyngeal edema, requires treatment with glucocorticoids.

If you suspect this disease, you should contact an infectious disease specialist who will determine adequate therapy for infectious mononucleosis.

If you think that you have Infectious Mononucleosis and the symptoms characteristic of this disease, then an infectious disease specialist can help you.

We also suggest using our online disease diagnostic service, which selects probable diseases based on the entered symptoms.

Tularemia is a disease of a natural focal nature, manifested as an acute infection. Tularemia, the symptoms of which include damage to the lymph nodes and skin, and in some cases, the mucous membranes of the pharynx, eyes and lungs, is also distinguished by the symptoms of general intoxication.

Scarlet fever is an infectious disease that occurs in patients in an acute form and is transmitted by airborne droplets. It is noteworthy that scarlet fever, the symptoms of which manifest themselves in the form of a severe pinpoint rash, sore throat, fever and intoxication, occurs not only in children, as many mistakenly assume, but also in adults. We also note that as sources of infection, patients are most dangerous in the first days of manifestation of this disease.

A zoonotic infectious disease that affects primarily the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, reproductive and nervous systems of humans is called brucellosis. Microorganisms of this disease were identified back in 1886, and the discoverer of the disease is the English scientist Bruce Brucellosis.

Leukopenia or neutropenia is a pathological process in the human body, which is characterized by a decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood (level below 1.5x109/l). If leukocytes are completely absent from the blood, then a pathological condition called “agranulocytosis” develops. Most often, leukopenia develops in adults and children after chemotherapy. Proper and timely drug treatment, as well as diet, will help overcome this disease.

Malaria is a group of vector-borne diseases that are transmitted by the bite of a malarial mosquito. The disease is widespread in Africa and the Caucasus countries. Children under 5 years of age are most susceptible to the disease. More than 1 million deaths are recorded every year. But, with timely treatment, the disease proceeds without serious complications.

With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.

Symptoms and treatment of human diseases

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Source: http://simptomer.ru/bolezni/infektsii-parazity/84-infektsionnyy-mononukleoz-simptomy

Mononucleosis: what kind of disease?

Mononucleosis refers to a viral infection that affects the macrophage system, resulting in disruption at the cellular level.

During the diagnosis, you can notice an increase in lymph nodes, pathological changes in the liver, spleen, and hematopoietic system.

During the course of the disease, immunity decreases, toxicosis and sore throat appear. In this article, we will look at the causes of the disease and answer the question: “What kind of disease is mononucleosis?”

Mononucleosis: causes of development

The main cause of the development of the disease is the Epstein-Barr virus, which belongs to the herpes group and affects lymphocytes - a part of the immune system. If the virus enters the body of children, the disease is diagnosed as infectious mononucleosis.

The source of infection is the patient, the carrier of the virus. However, infection requires prolonged contact (living in the same room, sharing household items).

The main cause of the disease is the Epstein-Barr virus

Mononucleosis disease and its classification

In medical practice today there is no clear classification of the disease. However, there is an acute form, when the symptoms are pronounced and hospitalization is often required, as well as a chronic form - the disease proceeds sluggishly for 6-8 months.

Mononucleosis: symptoms of infection

The incubation period for this disease can last from 48 hours to 14 days. The main manifestation of mononucleosis is as follows:

  • a sharp increase in body temperature (up to 39-40°C), which does not decrease even after antipyretics;
  • a few days after the temperature rises, nausea, vomiting occurs, and the patient develops a fever;
  • headache, weakness, body aches, signs of sore throat.

The main symptom of mononucleosis is the development of sore throat, which is accompanied by vomiting and high fever. A severe sore throat occurs, and the sore throat can be purulent in nature.

Another characteristic symptom is rashes all over the patient’s body, which do not always have a standard appearance. Usually, the rash does not last long, no more than 3 days.

a characteristic symptom is a rash on the patient’s body, which does not always have a standard appearance

Children who have had infectious mononucleosis may experience mild enlargement of the spleen and liver as symptoms. But if the treatment was timely and of high quality, then after therapy, after 4-6 weeks, the organs return to normal.

Mononucleosis: diagnostic methods

The diagnosis of mononucleosis can be assumed based on the description of the clinical picture. But a complete blood test still plays a decisive role in confirming the disease.

The main blood test will be aimed at detecting the Epstein-Barr virus, as well as antibodies. This study is important because it is necessary to clearly distinguish mononucleosis from tonsillitis, hepatitis, measles or HIV infection.

Principles of disease treatment

Mononucleosis is treated exclusively under the supervision of doctors - a pediatrician or therapist, as well as an infectious disease specialist. There is currently no specific method for destroying the Epstein-Barr virus. For this reason, therapy consists of the use of antiviral drugs and immune system simulators. In case of development of tonsillitis, lacunar tonsillitis, it is necessary to prescribe antibiotics, mainly cephalosporins, for example: cefazolin, ceftriaxone. If you are allergic to penicillins, the drugs of choice are macrolides: azithromycin, midecamycin, clarithromycin. They are among the least toxic products. They are easier to use in children's practice.

In the case of the development of tonsillitis, lacunar tonsillitis, it is necessary to prescribe antibiotics, mainly cephalosporins

Treatment will also be aimed at reducing and eliminating symptoms. For these purposes, topical preparations can be used, for example, chlorophyllipt, stomatidine, Bioparox or Hexoral. The medications will help relieve inflammation and sore throat. Additionally, antipyretics are prescribed - Nurofen, Ibuprofen.

Since the disease causes the greatest complication on the liver, after treatment it is recommended to undergo a course of therapy with hepatoprotectors - Essentiale Forte, Karsil, Galstena. Treatment can be carried out at home, but if we are talking about small children, doctors still recommend hospitalization.

Since the disease causes the greatest complication to the liver, after treatment it is recommended to undergo a course of hepatoprotector therapy

Possible complications

Mononucleosis is a dangerous infection and in some cases can have serious consequences - from the development of hepatitis to rupture of the spleen. Severe damage to the respiratory tract (of an inflammatory nature) may also occur before respiratory failure occurs. In children, complications after mononucleosis are characterized by the development of pneumonia.

What is the prognosis for mononucleosis?

Timely and correct treatment of the disease gives a very positive prognosis. However, the infection has too negative an effect on the immune system, which subsequently provokes frequent colds. Therefore, periodically a course of immunostimulating drugs will have to be taken. Also in the future, the risk of frequent sore throats or tonsillitis increases.

Timely and correct treatment of the disease gives a very positive prognosis

Today there is no vaccine against the virus that causes mononucleosis. For this reason, preventive measures include maintaining your health: hardening, sports, taking vitamins, rinsing the nasal mucosa, and taking care of the respiratory system. At the slightest suspicion of this infection, you need to urgently consult a doctor, or better yet, call him at home.

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Source: http://antirodinka.ru/mononukleoz-chto-za-bolezn

Mononucleosis

The source of infection is carriers (people who have had mononucleosis) or patients. The main way the virus spreads is by aerosol, sometimes infection occurs through saliva. In children, transmission of the pathogen can occur through contaminated toys. Contact and blood transfusion (with donor blood) routes of spread are possible.

Types and classification of the disease

2. Infectious, unspecified;

3. Gamma herpetic virus;

4. Infectious of another etiology.

• Atypical - includes asymptomatic, erased and visceral (internal) types of disease.

- Subclinical - an asymptomatic type, detected during examination of people who have been in contact with the patient.

Symptoms and signs

— Infectious mononucleosis has other names: Filatov’s disease, mononucleosis infectiosa, benign lymphoblastosis and monocytic tonsillitis.

— In medicine, the history of the disease begins in 1887, it was at this time that N. F. Filatov pointed out the infectious nature of mononucleosis and described the main symptoms.

— The name of the disease was given by American scientists Evans and Sprunt, and in 1964 Epstein and Barr isolated a herpes-like virus from the patient’s cells.

Temperature indicators are unstable, constantly “jumping”, fever practically does not respond to the antipyretic effect of drugs, hyperthermia approximately lasts about a week, gradually subsiding. The main symptom of the disease is tonsillitis accompanied by high fever and toxicosis. Angina can have any form (catarrhal, necrotic, lacunar or membranous), the most severe course is characteristic of a decrease in granulocytes in the blood. Soreness, pain, dryness and itching in the throat develop. The mucous membrane of the tonsils is hyperemic, covered with a yellow, loose coating. Mucosal hemorrhages and follicular hyperplasia may develop.

Complications

• addition of a secondary infection (streptococcal, staphylococcal);

Source: http://fitfan.ru/health/bolezni/7379-mononukleoz.html

Infectious mononucleosis: symptoms, treatment. Mononucleosis - what is it?

Mononucleosis is one of those diseases that are extremely rare in the practice of modern doctors. However, it should be noted that this is a very dangerous disease. Especially when it comes to children. In addition, in most cases the disease appears suddenly. So, we suggest finding out what is hidden behind the diagnosis of “mononucleosis”, what kind of illness it is and how to protect your child from the disease.

Characteristic

According to statistics, mononucleosis in adults is extremely rare. Almost 90% of the population is immune to the Epstein-Barr virus, since this infection was suffered in adolescence. The presence of antibodies in the blood indicates that they had to suffer from the disease at least once. The virus most often occurs in adolescents and children. Girls are most susceptible to this disease in their early years, and boys - in their mid-years.

What kind of disease is mononucleosis? This is an acute infectious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is quite stable in the external environment. The virus causes a primary specific infection. Of every 10 people who become infected with it, approximately 9 develop a chronic form. It is not accompanied by acute episodes.

Thus, these people are lifelong carriers of the virus. They will never survive the acute form of the disease. At the same time, without being sick themselves, carriers secrete the virus in their saliva. That is why, to the question: “Mononucleosis - what is it?”, you can hear the answer: “Kissing disease.”

This disease has many names. For example: Filatov's disease, monocytic tonsillitis, Pfeiffer's disease, glandular fever, recruit's disease, Epstein-Barr virus infection, EBV infection and kissing disease.

Description

Due to the low prevalence of the disease, few people know what kind of disease mononucleosis is. As noted above, this is an acute illness of a viral nature.

It manifests itself as a significant increase in temperature, damage to the lymph nodes and tonsils. In addition, the disease leads to an enlargement of the spleen and liver. The causative agent of the disease belongs to type 4 herpes viruses.

Its peculiarity is the selective destruction of cells of the immune system. The virus affects B lymphocytes. This leads to changes in those organs in which they are present - the spleen, lymph nodes, liver.

After mononucleosis, a person develops a strong immune system. They do not get sick again.

Causes of pathology

The main source of the disease are people who have the Epstein-Barr virus in their blood. An infected person releases it into the external environment. At the same time, the virus is spread not only by patients with an open form. The erased form of mononucleosis is also dangerous. Studies have shown that for 18 months after infection, the virus is released into the environment. This occurs even when there are no clinical manifestations.

The main route of spread is airborne. However, this does not always happen. The virus can enter the oropharynx of a healthy person through contact and household contact, for example, through a kiss. This happens much more often than during sneezing. In addition, the virus can enter the body through blood transfusion. It should be remembered (if we are talking about mononucleosis) that this is an infectious disease.

As soon as the virus enters the oral mucosa (the most favorable conditions for it), it penetrates the lymphocytes. This is where it breeds. Throughout the body, the infection spreads hematogenously, infecting it along the way and provoking the signs that characterize mononucleosis. The patient's symptoms indicate infection.

Characteristic signs

The incubation period of the disease is from 4 to 6 weeks. In most cases, acute infectious mononucleosis begins. Symptoms characterizing the disease appear almost immediately.

The main signs of the disease are:

  1. Headache.
  2. Enlarged spleen and liver.
  3. Inflammation of the lymph nodes.
  4. Mononuclear tonsillitis (dirty gray films appear on the tonsils, they are easily removed with tweezers).
  5. Enlarged lymph nodes (palpation is quite painful and can reach the size of an egg).
  6. Pain in joints and muscles.
  7. Weakness.
  8. Fever.
  9. Skin lesions from herpes may occur.
  10. Loss of appetite.
  11. Bleeding gums.
  12. A sore throat.
  13. Runny nose.
  14. Nausea.
  15. Nasal congestion.
  16. Increased susceptibility to infections.

In this case, the main symptoms characterizing mononucleosis are severe fatigue, high fever, swollen lymph nodes and sore throat.

The disease begins with a general malaise, the duration of which varies from several days to a week. After this, there is an increase in temperature, a sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes. As noted above, these are the symptoms that characterize infectious mononucleosis. The maximum body temperature sometimes reaches 39 degrees. The throat becomes quite inflamed, and pus may appear on the back wall.

Forms of the disease

This disease is divided into two types:

  1. Typical form. Such infectious mononucleosis in children is characterized by the symptoms described above.
  2. Atypical form. With this type, some symptoms are absent. Sometimes manifestations uncharacteristic of the disease are observed:
  • An asymptomatic form can be diagnosed. In this case, the child is exclusively a carrier of the infection, which can only be detected by laboratory methods.
  • In the erased form, all signs of infection are mild. They disappear very quickly.
  • The visceral form is characterized by damage and enlargement of internal organs.

Diagnosis of the disease

It is quite difficult to identify mononucleosis in children. Symptoms of the disease are characteristic of most viral diseases. Mononucleosis can be suspected if the main symptoms persist for a long period. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor.

At the initial examination, the doctor, based on complaints, determines the symptoms of the disease. If mononucleosis is suspected, a blood test is the most important test. After all, a diagnosis can be made only after careful collection of laboratory and clinical data. A blood test determines the increase in lymphocytes, as well as the presence of atypical mononuclear cells.

Such a study, if the results are positive, clarifies the presence of infection in the body and the transition of the disease to a chronic form. A negative test result confirms the absence of infection. To monitor the development of infection, it is recommended to take a blood test every 3 days.

Drug treatment

To this day, there is not a single medication that can fight the virus. Therefore, if mononucleosis is diagnosed, treatment in children and adults is based on combating symptoms.

Antibiotics are included in therapy if the disease has caused complications, and there are pronounced deposits in the oropharynx. Do not forget that the necessary drug must be prescribed by a doctor. After all, some of them are completely unsuitable for treating this disease. For example, when choosing an antibiotic, you should know that penicillin drugs, and especially the drug Ampicillin, are strictly contraindicated for infectious mononucleosis. In children, after using such antibiotics, severe allergic reactions are observed in 70% of all cases. As a rule, this is Quincke's edema and rash.

The following drugs are considered quite effective:

The medicine “Wobenzym” is recommended for use. It has an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect on the children's body.

For purulent plaque on the tonsils, it is advisable to introduce throat treatment products into therapy. Anti-inflammatory solutions and spray are effective. The prescription may include drugs:

If mononucleosis provokes symptoms of nasal congestion in children, it is recommended to regularly rinse it with solutions based on sea water. Some of the effective means are:

In addition, the nasal cavities must be instilled with special drops for about eight days. In this case, the remedy “Protargol” is effective. The child will also need vasoconstrictor medications. It is advisable to use drugs:

If the disease is severe, the doctor may prescribe glucocorticoids “Dexamethasone” and “Prednisolone”, as well as probiotics “Bifidumbacterin”, “Acipol”.

Additional recommendations

It is imperative to control the air humidity in the patient's room. This simple recommendation will make it much easier for your child to breathe through the nose and avoid a dry throat. If you use a humidifier, it is useful to add essential oils to it (pine and eucalyptus are best).

Provide your child with plenty of warm fluids. This will protect him from the risk of dehydration.

It is very important to provide your baby with proper nutrition. In no case should you overload the spleen and liver. The diet should include light meals enriched with vitamins. Fatty, sweet, salty, smoked and spicy foods are strictly prohibited.

A child is constantly tired if he is diagnosed with mononucleosis. Treatment involves more than just drug therapy. In this state, sleep is beneficial for the child. It will provide the body with rapid recovery.

It is important to remember that with this diagnosis the child should be protected from physical exertion. In no case should damage to the abdominal area be allowed to occur, since mononucleosis in adults and children provokes a significant enlargement of the spleen. The organ even begins to protrude from under the ribs. Any injury to this area can lead to rupture of the spleen.

How does Komarovsky advise treating mononucleosis? The famous doctor focuses on the following aspects:

  • drinking plenty of water;
  • fresh air;
  • maintaining optimal humidity and temperature in the room.

If necessary, it is recommended to take an antipyretic. The doctor advises parents to be patient for three or four days, and not to “stuff” the baby with antibiotics and various unnecessary medications.

Recovery period

Now you know what is meant by the diagnosis of “mononucleosis”, what kind of illness it is. However, treatment does not end solely with relief from symptoms. The disease greatly exhausts the body. High temperature, painful, enlarged lymph nodes, a dangerous virus in the blood - all this takes away the strength of the patient. This is why the child’s body needs long-term rehabilitation.

Thus, despite the fact that the child has recovered from an illness such as mononucleosis, treatment in children must continue.

Here are a number of recommendations for the recovery period.

  1. During the first month, the little patient does not feel very well and may often complain of weakness and malaise. At this time, he especially needs rest and sleep.
  2. Do not forget that for another six months the child is a carrier of the virus. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the baby with separate dishes. This will protect other family members from infection.
  3. The doctor will recommend taking control urine and blood tests. It is very important to conduct such examinations. They will show the state of the child’s body.
  4. To recover, the doctor will recommend taking a course of vitamin therapy. As a rule, you should take a vitamin-mineral complex for a month. It could be: “Vitrum”, “Multi-tabs”, “Kinder Biovital”.
  5. Immunomodulatory drugs are required. They allow you to strengthen the body and avoid unwanted complications.

Effective immunomodulatory medications that a child needs for the rehabilitation period are:

  1. Derinat drops. Provide restorative and strengthening functions of the nasal mucosa.
  2. Candles "Viferon". This is an antiviral agent. It belongs to the category of interferons, has antiviral properties and restores immunity.
  3. The drug "Imudon". This is an excellent immunomodulator, a local drug. Designed for the prevention and treatment of diseases of the oropharynx.

Following these recommendations will allow the child’s body to recover much faster after a disease such as mononucleosis. Treatment should not be limited to just combating symptoms, but should continue during the rehabilitation period.

Children are exempt from various preventive vaccinations for a whole year. They need to limit physical activity. In addition, children who have had mononucleosis should be protected from exposure to the sun. In the coming summer, you should sunbathe with extreme caution. Active sun exposure is strictly contraindicated for such children.

The big advantage is that with proper treatment and compliance with rehabilitation measures, the disease is completely cured.

Diet food

Since infectious mononucleosis in children affects vital organs such as the liver and spleen, the child needs gentle nutrition. Doctors prescribe dietary table number 5.

In this case, dishes are prepared boiled or baked. It is advisable to take food 5-6 times a day.

It is recommended that the child include in the diet:

  1. Fruit and non-sour berry juices. Tomato juice is useful. Jelly and compote are allowed. The diet includes weak tea and coffee with milk. It is recommended to use rosehip decoction.
  2. Rye or wheat bread, only yesterday's baking. Insipid cookies.
  3. Whole milk, powdered, condensed. A little sour cream, low-fat cottage cheese, mild cheese.
  4. A variety of soups, exclusively based on vegetable broth. Fruit and dairy products are beneficial.
  5. Vegetable oil, butter - no more than 50 g per day is allowed.
  6. Lean (low-fat) varieties of meat, boiled or baked.
  7. Crumbly porridge. It is recommended to give preference to buckwheat and oatmeal.
  8. Low-fat types of fish - pike perch, carp, cod, navaga, pike, silver hake. Exclusively in steamed or boiled form.
  9. Vegetables and herbs are healthy, especially tomatoes. Non-acidic sauerkraut is allowed.
  10. You can include no more than one egg per day in your diet (in the form of an omelet).
  11. Jam, honey Sugar is allowed.
  12. A variety of fruits and berries are useful. At the same time, acidic foods are unacceptable.

Dietary nutrition involves excluding the following categories of foods from the diet:

  1. Fresh bread, baked goods. You should avoid cakes, pancakes, and fried pies.
  2. Lard, cooking fats.
  3. Soups based on meat, fish, and mushroom broths.
  4. Legumes, spinach, mushrooms, sorrel, green onions, radishes, radishes.
  5. Fatty meat - pork, lamb, beef, duck, goose, chicken.
  6. Hard-boiled or fried eggs
  7. Fatty fish - beluga, stellate sturgeon, sturgeon, catfish.
  8. Canned food, pickled vegetables, caviar, smoked meats.
  9. Sour berries and fruits, cranberries.
  10. Pepper, horseradish, mustard.
  11. Black coffee, cold drinks, cocoa.
  12. Cream products, ice cream, chocolate.
  13. Adults are advised to avoid alcoholic beverages.

Conclusion

Despite such unpleasant symptoms and the severe course of the disease, children who have suffered from infectious mononucleosis become the owners of stable immunity to it. Despite the fact that the virus remains forever in the body, it will never again subject a person who has suffered the disease to new torment, since relapses of the disease almost never occur.

Source: http://www.syl.ru/article/171196/new_infektsionnyiy-mononukleoz-simptomyi-lechenie-mononukleoz—chto-eto