Infectious Mononucleosis in Athletes

Infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever) is a common, usually self-limiting viral illness, most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), that typically affects adolescents and young adults.

It combines sore throat, fever and swollen glands with marked, often prolonged fatigue. In sport it matters for 2 reasons: the spleen commonly enlarges and can rupture, a rare but potentially fatal event, and the fatigue can keep an athlete out for weeks.

The SEM clinician's task is to recognise and confirm the illness, manage it supportively, counsel clearly on the splenic risk and guide a safe, individualised return to sport.