Can One Show Mononucleosis Symptoms Before The Acute Phase?

Posted on Fri, 26 May 2023

Question: about 7 weeks ago, I came down with a minor sore throat with pus on my tonsils. It went away on its own the soreness but a small amount of pus remained. I was told it wasn't strep. After I thought I was in the clear, My lymph nodes started becoming very swollen all over. I felt fatigued and unwell. Blood tests were normal except for vca-igm antibody which was very elevated. I was told I am in the acute phase of mono. Within days since this past sunday of getting these results, my spleen is enlarging and so is my liver with elevated liver enzymes. My throat is now sore again with a lot of pus. My question is is what I had in February the beginning of mono with the mild sore throat? Can you show symptoms before the acute phase? I was worried that it could have possible been untreated strep but everything points to mono now.

Answered by Dr. Varinder (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Yes, you may show symptoms before typical manifestations appear in viral infections. It is called prodromal phase. A majority of them show malaise, body pain etc.

Now, enlarged spleen and liver involvement are typical mononucleosis symptoms and not seen in streptococcal infections especially spleen enlargement.

Infectious mononucleosis is common among young adults.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Varinder Joshi
General & Family Physician

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng