OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Could I Be Infected with Mono?

7/3/2025, 2:30:35 PMMale25-34

I'm a 34-year-old female who recently underwent testing for mono, and I just received my lab results online. Unfortunately, my doctor is unavailable until next week, so I’m seeking some clarity regarding my results: - The EBV Ab VCA, IgM test results showed a normal level, reporting less than 36. - The EBV Ab VCA, IgG results were elevated, with a measurement of 266. - The EBV Nuclear Antigen Ab, IgG results were significantly high at over 600. With these findings, is it likely that I have mononucleosis?

LupusInternal MedicineEndocrinology

Answers (1)

Cony

7/3/2025, 2:30:54 PM

OpenHealth AI

Your lab results suggest that you may not have an active infection with mononucleosis, but it's important to understand what the results indicate.

  1. Test Interpretation:

    • EBV Ab VCA, IgM: This test usually indicates a recent infection if elevated. Your normal result (<36) suggests you likely do not currently have an active Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
    • EBV Ab VCA, IgG: Elevated IgG (266) indicates that you have been infected with EBV at some point in the past, which is common as many people are exposed to this virus.
    • EBV Nuclear Antigen Ab, IgG: A significantly high level (over 600) also indicates a past infection. High levels of this antibody typically suggest a history of infection but do not imply an active case.
  2. Conclusion:

    • Based on your results, you likely do not have a current mononucleosis infection. Most people are exposed to EBV as children or young adults and develop immunity, which can result in positive IgG antibodies.

Next Steps:

  1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as fatigue, fever, or sore throat, and how long they persist.

  2. Hydration & Rest: Focus on staying hydrated and getting ample rest to help your body recover, especially if you are feeling fatigued.

  3. Follow-Up: When your doctor is available, discuss your concerns and the meaning of these results in detail, particularly if you're experiencing any health issues.

If you have specific symptoms that are concerning or change significantly, consider seeking care sooner or visiting a healthcare provider. Let me know if you need further clarification or assistance!

Related Questions

30-Year-Old with Unusual Tonsil Swelling for Over a Week

For approximately a week, I have been dealing with enlarged tonsils accompanied by a painful throat. The left tonsil, in particular, appears significantly swollen. I initially looked for tonsil stones, but thankfully, none were found. In addition to the tonsil issue, I’m also experiencing a runny nose and some general fatigue. I have intermittent coughing fits, and I notice that both the soreness in my throat and the surrounding area intensify throughout the day. Earlier in April, I underwent a procedure to reduce my nasal turbinates due to frequent sinus infections. Thankfully, the recovery went well, and my breathing has improved greatly. Currently, I’m taking Vyvanse and testosterone to address my persistent low levels, along with over-the-counter magnesium. I also manage my allergies with Claritin, but I’ve never encountered symptoms like this before.

Multiple SclerosisFibromyalgiaInternal Medicine
Male25-34
22 minutes ago

Managing a Raised Scar from Ringworm: Options to Consider

As a 29-year-old male, I have developed a noticeable circular scar resulting from a ringworm infection. This mark has been present for more than a year. Initially, it appeared red, prompting me to apply an antifungal cream for a span of 2-3 weeks. While the redness subsided following the treatment, the raised scar itself remains intact. Should I consider another course of antifungal treatment? Is this scar likely to be permanent? Are there alternative approaches I can explore?

Crohn's DiseaseInternal MedicineRheumatology
Male25-34
22 minutes ago

Seeking Guidance: Months of Struggling with Severe Symptoms

I’m a 21-year-old woman with no prior health concerns or surgical history, yet I’ve found myself frequently visiting hospitals—about 15 times over the last eight months. It all began with digestive troubles, including a loss of appetite, nausea, and persistent stomach discomfort. After finally consulting a gastroenterologist, I was placed on a lengthy waiting list for a colonoscopy, initially scheduled for six months later, only to encounter yet another delay, pushing it to November. In the meantime, I’ve endured numerous episodes of feeling faint, heart palpitations, and an overall sense of malaise. Despite undergoing tests like a heart monitor and echocardiogram, nothing abnormal was detected, although my digestive issues continue to persist. In late March, specifically from about March 20 to April 16, I suffered from an unbearable headache that simply would not subside. I sought help at the hospital three times, only to be dismissed as having a migraine. The pain radiated from one side of my head to encompass my entire skull. This situation brought on disturbing vision issues, such as seeing colorful spots and heightened sensitivity to light, coupled with debilitating brain fog that left me feeling detached from my own identity. The right side of my head became so sensitive that even light pressure was intolerable. My memory started to deteriorate, and I found it increasingly hard to recall even basic words—my vocabulary began to dwindle. To make matters worse, I lost my father at the end of March, which overwhelmed me with grief. It felt as if I had lost a part of myself, making it difficult to focus on anything, let alone properly mourn. For 27 days, I was largely confined to bed because of the excruciating headache, with everyone suggesting I visit a neurologist—though that appointment wouldn't happen until September, given my location. I eventually returned to the emergency room, pleading for an MRI, which they performed, but sadly, the findings were normal. This revelation shattered my spirit, as I have been experiencing such profound distress. Reflecting on my situation, I now realize I should have been more assertive in asking for a spinal tap. Despite being brushed off as a healthy 21-year-old suffering from anxiety and mental health issues, I am well-acquainted with both and manage them effectively. Yet, this feels drastically different. Now in July, I question how I’ve managed to keep going while feeling as though my essence has vanished. I exhibit impulsive and uncontrollable behaviors, struggle with solitude, and experience brain fog so intense that it feels like I’m operating someone else’s mind. My ability to hold a job has also been severely impacted. An eye examination determined that my eyes are fine, but I suspect I may be dealing with autoimmune encephalitis, leaving me unsure about my next steps. I’ve been grappling with disorientation, irritability, and aggressiveness. I’ve abstained from alcohol and smoking for months since both exacerbate my symptoms and lead to near-fainting. My memory feels impaired, and my sleep has increased to 14-16 hours a day, a drastic change from my previous limit of eight hours. When I wake up, I feel completely drained and heavy. Additionally, confabulation has been noted by friends and family; they recognize issues with my memory long before I do. I feel like I’m losing touch with my abilities, trapped in daily head pain that refuses to relent. Paranoia and compulsive eating are just two more aspects I could detail further. I’m reaching out for help, desperate for clarity amidst this chaos.

Multiple SclerosisLupusCrohn's Disease
Male25-34
31 minutes ago

Seeking Guidance on Persistent Symptoms

For the past several months, I've been dealing with a variety of troubling symptoms. The most prominent issue I face is a sensation of something lodged in my throat and chest, which fluctuates in intensity day to day. Additionally, I've been suffering from recurrent sinus infections and persistent sneezing. Alongside these, I've experienced bouts of dizziness, overwhelming fatigue, and a pervasive sense of dread. I've sought medical attention multiple times, both at my doctor’s office and in the hospital. I'm currently awaiting an endoscopic procedure. However, I've noticed that my tongue appears swollen over the last couple of days, though my doctor does not believe this is due to an allergic reaction. At present, I am taking antihistamines and medication for heartburn. Most of my lab results have come back normal, aside from slightly low folate and vitamin D levels. I've also had my thyroid assessed several times for potential issues. I'm genuinely anxious about the possibility of an allergic reaction occurring, even though I’m not aware of any allergies that would trigger such a response. My anxiety levels have skyrocketed as I find myself fixating on worst-case scenarios. A bit about my background: I am a 34-year-old female, weighing 176 pounds, and my only existing health concerns are related to GERD, for which I take Allegra and famotidine daily. These ongoing issues have been a cause of significant distress for several months now.

Crohn's DiseaseThyroid DisordersInternal Medicine
Male25-34
52 minutes ago

Concerns About Colon Cancer: My Story

Greetings! Allow me to introduce myself: I’m a 25-year-old individual residing in Germany. For the past two weeks, I’ve been experiencing abdominal discomfort. Thankfully, there hasn’t been any significant blood in my stool, even though I’ve noticed a slight amount. I’ve sought medical attention in the emergency department on two occasions, and each diagnosis was gastritis. The discomfort alleviates significantly with medication, yet it still occasionally returns. Recently, I’ve come across accounts from individuals battling colon cancer, which has fueled my anxiety regarding the disease. One patient tragically passed away at the age of 37, while another, at 25, suffered from intense cramps for a year and a half. I have already undergone a colonoscopy, leading doctors to reassure me that colon cancer is not a concern. Nonetheless, I can’t shake the fear that I might still be facing this illness. I recall a particular case where the patient exhibited only mucus and traces of blood in their stool and was diagnosed at stage three. Additionally, I have a family history of concern; my grandfather was diagnosed with colon cancer, and my mother has had polyps since her thirties. Given this history, I’m left wondering if I should be vigilant about colon cancer. Could it be possible that my grandfather had a hereditary mutation, with my mother being a carrier who hasn’t developed the illness herself? I would greatly appreciate any insights you can provide on my worries. Thank you!

Crohn's DiseaseCOPDInternal Medicine
Male25-34
1 hour ago