Infectious mononucleosis in active patients: definitive answers to common questions.

Infectious mononucleosis may account for considerable illness, especially among adolescents and young adults. Although the disorder was well described more than 70 years ago as involving fever, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy, questions often arise about diagnosis and management. Because primary infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can lead to diverse disease manifestation and complications, physicians must be well-versed in the disorder's epidemiology and pathophysiology. New information assesses the reliability of heterophil antibody testing and the role of EBV-specific antibody testing, and addresses issues of management, including corticosteroids, antiviral drugs, and restriction from athletic participation. Most athletes can return to sports after a minimum of 4 weeks, provided the spleen is not palpable.