What test is commonly used to diagnose infectious mononucleosis?

The heterophile antibody test, also known as the monospot test, is the primary and most commonly used diagnostic test for infectious mononucleosis. This condition is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and the monospot test detects the presence of heterophile antibodies that typically appear in response to this viral infection.

The test is advantageous because it is rapid and can produce results within a few hours. A positive result indicates that the patient has developed these antibodies, which are associated with infectious mononucleosis. While there are other tests, such as viral capsid antigen tests, the monospot test is favored in many clinical settings due to its simplicity and effectiveness in diagnosing the condition.

Other tests like LDH assays, C-reactive protein measurements, and a complete blood count may provide supportive information but do not target the specific antibodies related to infectious mononucleosis. LDH can be elevated in various conditions, C-reactive protein is a marker of general inflammation, and a complete blood count may show atypical lymphocytes indicative of a viral infection, but none of these tests are specific or definitive for diagnosing infectious mononucleosis. Thus, the heterophile antibody test stands out as the appropriate choice for