New York Internist’s Office Performs Mononucleosis Testing in House
A mononucleosis test includes:
Monospot test – a quick screening test that detects a type of antibody that forms infections. During the test, blood sample is placed on a microscope slide and mixed with other substances. If the antibodies are present, the blood clumps indicating a mono infection.
EBV antibody test where a sample of blood is mixed with a substance that attaches to the antibodies. This can help determine if the patient was infected either recently or in the past.
The monospot test can be done by simply taking a small sample of blood from the patient’s fingertip or vein while the EBV test is done by taking a blood sample from the vein. No special preparation is required before the test. Talk to Dr. Gafanovich regarding any concerns you may have about the test.
Monospot tests are generally read within an hour while the EBV antibody test results are usually ready within 3 business days.
New York City doctors must at some point explain to their adult patients that they, too, can get mononucleosis. Common misperceptions abound with regarding this harmful virus, including the fact that adults do not get the “kissing” disease.
Mononucleosis is a viral infection that has been linked to both the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and organisms such as the cytomegalovirus (CMV). This infection is categorized by extreme fatigue, swollen glands, headaches, and sore throats. It can be associated with “strep throat” which is why doctors must test for mono prior to delivering medication as antibiotics and steroids have little or no effect upon the virus, but can weaken the immune system. Complications from this virus can be mild to serious, including death for those with weakened immune systems. Mononucleosis is usually passed via saliva, hence its reputation as a kissing disease. It can be passed by sharing drinks or any other activity where saliva may be exchanged.
Your Manhattan physician, Dr. Gafanovich wants you to know that her office is capable of performing Mono tests in-house.
You can have your results expeditiously, enabling your physician to devise an appropriate treatment plan. Call (212) 249-6218 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Marina Gafanovich, MD in her conveniently located Upper East Side office.