Can a Blood Test Detect Glandular Fever?
Glandular fever, also known as mononucleosis or mono, is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is characterized by a swollen lymph gland, fever, and fatigue. While glandular fever is usually diagnosed based on symptoms, a blood test may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Blood Test
A blood test is a laboratory analysis of a sample of a person's blood. It is used to measure levels of substances such as proteins, hormones, antibodies, and other molecules in the body. It can be used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including glandular fever.
The most common blood test used to diagnose glandular fever is the Monospot Test. This test looks for antibodies that the body produces in response to the EBV virus. If the test is positive, it means the person is infected with the virus and has glandular fever.
Other Tests
In some cases, other tests may be necessary to diagnose glandular fever. For example, a doctor may order a throat swab to look for the virus itself or a liver function test to check for possible complications.
Conclusion
A blood test is a reliable way to diagnose glandular fever. The Monospot Test is the most commonly used test to detect the EBV virus, which causes the condition. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.