What is a primary symptomatic treatment for infectious mononucleosis?

What is a primary symptomatic treatment for infectious mononucleosis?

• A. Acetaminophen (APAP) or NSAIDs
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Antivirals

Answer: (A)

Infectious mononucleosis is caused by EBV and is managed mainly with supportive care, since there isn’t a proven antiviral that shortens the illness in typical cases. The primary symptomatic treatment is to relieve fever and pain with acetaminophen or NSAIDs. This helps with fever, sore throat, and general discomfort, while fluids and rest support recovery. Antibiotics do not treat a viral illness and aren’t helpful here; in fact, giving amoxicillin or ampicillin during EBV infection can cause a widespread rash. Corticosteroids aren’t routine therapy and are reserved for specific complications like severe airway obstruction from swelling or significant hematologic issues, not as a standard treatment. Antivirals have limited benefit in ordinary cases, so they’re not used routinely.

Infectious mononucleosis is caused by EBV and is managed mainly with supportive care, since there isn’t a proven antiviral that shortens the illness in typical cases. The primary symptomatic treatment is to relieve fever and pain with acetaminophen or NSAIDs. This helps with fever, sore throat, and general discomfort, while fluids and rest support recovery. Antibiotics do not treat a viral illness and aren’t helpful here; in fact, giving amoxicillin or ampicillin during EBV infection can cause a widespread rash. Corticosteroids aren’t routine therapy and are reserved for specific complications like severe airway obstruction from swelling or significant hematologic issues, not as a standard treatment. Antivirals have limited benefit in ordinary cases, so they’re not used routinely.