Which virus is most commonly associated with mononucleosis?

Which virus is most commonly associated with mononucleosis?

• A. Herpes simplex virus
• B. Cytomegalovirus
• C. Varicella-zoster virus
• D. Epstein-Barr virus

Answer: (D)

Mononucleosis is most classically caused by Epstein-Barr virus, a herpesvirus that infects B lymphocytes and triggers a strong T‑cell response. This virus is the one most frequently associated with the infectious mononucleosis syndrome, especially in adolescents and young adults. It’s typically transmitted through saliva and presents with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and sometimes enlarged liver or spleen. Serology often shows heterophile antibodies (positive Monospot test). Cytomegalovirus can cause a mono‑like illness, but it is less common as the cause of classic mononucleosis, while herpes simplex and Varicella-zoster viruses lead to their own distinct diseases rather than the typical mononucleosis picture.

Mononucleosis is most classically caused by Epstein-Barr virus, a herpesvirus that infects B lymphocytes and triggers a strong T‑cell response. This virus is the one most frequently associated with the infectious mononucleosis syndrome, especially in adolescents and young adults. It’s typically transmitted through saliva and presents with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and sometimes enlarged liver or spleen. Serology often shows heterophile antibodies (positive Monospot test). Cytomegalovirus can cause a mono‑like illness, but it is less common as the cause of classic mononucleosis, while herpes simplex and Varicella-zoster viruses lead to their own distinct diseases rather than the typical mononucleosis picture.