Monotest (Monotest), a blood test that looks for antibodies that indicate an infection, usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus... This virus is not very dangerous, but it can sometimes cause complications and become serious in children.

In this article from GCORP LLC we would like to tell you what is the mono test and how is it done?.. stay with us in the future.

What is mononucleosis?

First, let's talk a little about this infection... Mononucleosis is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).. Share, you might get it.

Young children infected with EBV usually have mild or no symptoms, although teenagers and young adults are more likely to develop mono and experience significant symptoms.

The symptoms of mononucleosis are:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Swollen glands in the neck and armpits
• Severe fatigue
• Body pain
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Hurry
Swelling of the spleen, liver, or both

If you have these symptoms for a week or more, you may have the virus and should see your doctor for a single test.

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What is monotest?

This test is known by other names such as monospot test, heterophile antibody and Epstein-Barr antibody test... but the most famous of them is the mono test.

See more: The Good Infectious Doctor

When a virus infects the body, the immune system kicks in to fight it.... This is your body's defense response and it secretes some antibodies or fighter cells to fight the virus... The mono test looks for the presence of two antibodies that are usually produced in the body when there are certain infections, such as infections caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.... In rare cases, even if you don't have an infection, the test may show antibodies.... This occurs in the following situations:

• Hepatitis
• blood cancer
• Measles
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Other infectious diseases and some cancers

Mono test types

• Monospot test: This test looks for specific antibodies in the blood... These antibodies show themselves during or after infection... However, this test is sometimes not accurate and there is a high probability of being negative.
• EBV antibody test: This test looks for EBV antibodies which are the main cause of mono.. There are different types of EBV antibodies...

Mono test method

This blood test is usually done after the onset of symptoms, which is usually 4 to 6 weeks after the incubation period.... Like most blood tests, the mono test must be done in an accredited, sanitary facility.... Your doctor will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm.... but sometimes a simple finger prick test may be used instead.

First, an elastic band is placed around the arm to fill the vein with blood... Then a small needle is slowly inserted into the vein and when the syringe contains enough blood, the doctor takes out the needle and covers the small wound with a bandage.

Lab technicians put the blood sample on a microscope slide, mix it with other materials, and then see if the blood starts to clot.

Although the blood test is very safe, some people may have a headache after it is done...so sit down and don't forget to have a snack and a drink... Other side effects may include pain at the injection site, especially if your vein is hard to find.

Don't worry if your hand is bruised... it usually heals after a few days.. If you notice swelling, applying a warm compress can be helpful.. Be sure to disinfect the area with alcohol before and after the monotest to prevent infection.. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners like warfarin, before the test or when you're done>..

Care after mono positive test

While there is no cure for mono, there are things you can do to relieve symptoms, including:

• Get enough rest
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Take syrup or tablets to relieve a sore throat
• Consult a doctor about pain relievers....never use over the counter medications for children....because they can cause Reye's syndrome, which is sometimes fatal and affects the brain and liver.

The condition usually clears up on its own within a few weeks, although feeling tired may take a little longer....Children are advised to avoid exercise for at least a month after symptoms clear up...This helps prevent damage to the spleen, as the spleen is damaged sooner after an active infection.

In general, contact sports such as football and vigorous activity should be avoided if you have late splenomegaly. While there is no vaccine or specific treatment for mono, your doctor may prescribe medications to treat complications from the infection.

Conclusion

As said, this test is prescribed only sometimes and if the symptoms are prolonged.... So if the symptoms continue, be sure to see a doctor so that a mono test can be done if needed and you or your child will not suffer serious complications.... If you need more advice, can you contact the doctors of GCORP LLC and make an appointment to do this test online?.

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