📌 What is the Monospot Test?
A blood test that detects heterophilic antibodies produced in response to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes infectious mononucleosis ("mono").
It is a rapid screening test for mono, a contagious viral infection.
Typically used for diagnosing mono in symptomatic individuals.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Diagnoses infectious mononucleosis caused by EBV.
✅ Helps differentiate mono from other viral or bacterial infections.
✅ Aids in evaluating persistent fatigue, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
✅ Provides a quick, on-the-spot diagnosis in a clinical setting.
📊 Normal Ranges & Interpretation
🔹 Negative (Normal Result): No heterophilic antibodies detected → No active EBV infection.
🔹 Positive Result: Presence of heterophilic antibodies → Likely infectious mononucleosis.
🔹 False Negatives: May occur early in infection or in young children (additional EBV-specific tests may be needed).
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A blood sample is taken from a vein or finger prick.
2️⃣ The sample is mixed with a reagent that detects heterophilic antibodies.
3️⃣ Results are available within minutes.
4️⃣ If negative but symptoms persist, additional EBV-specific antibody tests may be ordered.
⚠️ Who Should Get Tested?
🔹 Individuals with symptoms of mono:
Fatigue
Sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever
Enlarged spleen
🔹 Those with prolonged unexplained fatigue.
🔹 People with suspected EBV infection but need a quick diagnosis.
✅ Why is This Test Important?
✔️ Quick & effective in diagnosing mono.
✔️ Helps guide treatment recommendations & symptom management.
✔️ Prevents complications like spleen rupture in athletes.