Mononucleosis Spot Test
Alternate Names : Heterophile Antibody Test, Monospot Test
DefinitionThis blood test detects the presence of heterophile antibodies. Heterophile antibodies are antibodies that non-specifically react against different proteins and are useful in the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis.
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Why is the Test Performed?
The mononucleosis test is done to screen for the presence of infectious mononucleosis, a disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). About 1 week after the onset of the disease, many patients develop heterophile antibodies. The antibodies peak at weeks 2 to 5 and may persist for several months to 1 year. A small proportion of patients with mononucleosis may never develop heterophile antibodies.
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