Re: Mono--Monospot test info from medline

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Medical Encyclopedia: Mononucleosis spot test

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003454.htm

Alternative names???

Monospot test; Heterophile antibody test; Heterophile agglutination test;

-Bunnell test; Forssman antibody test

Definition???

The mononucleosis spot test looks for two antibodies in the blood that indicate

infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

Why the test is performed???

Sometimes, when the body reacts to an infection, antibodies are made that have

nothing to do with the germ. These are called heterophil antibodies.

This test looks for such antibodies. It is used to diagnosis 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 - 5 and may persist for several months to 1 year.

However, a small number of persons with mononucleosis may never develop such

antibodies.

Normal Values???

No heterophil antibodies are detected.

What abnormal results mean???

A positive test means heterophil antibodies are present. These are usually a

sign of infectious mononucleosis.

On rare occasions, false-positive results may be occur in persons with:

Leukemia or lymphoma

Rubella

Hepatitis

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)??

?

Monospot tests are usually positive in approximately 85% of patients with

infectious mononucleosis. Positive test results will not occur until 1?- 2 weeks

into the illness.

Update Date: 6/18/2007