Why is this procedure done?
Mononucleosis is also called mono. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. This infection causes flu-like signs. Your doctor may order a mono test if you: ‚
- Have signs like swollen glands, fever, sore throat, and tiredness
- Have a large spleen or liver
- Have been sick for a while and are not getting better
- Are having some other tests
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal.
- If the results are normal or negative, you may not have mono. Your signs may be caused by some other illness. It also possible that it is too soon for your body to react to the test and make it positive. You may need to have another test.
- If the results are not normal or positive, it is likely your signs are due to mono.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
Talk to your doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood for the mono virus. ‚
A mono spot test can be done with a small drop of blood from your finger. Instead of using a needle, the staff may prick your finger and smear some blood on a slide or collect it in a small tube. The blood will be taken and looked at under a microscope. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have mono. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/mono/tab/test/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚