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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
08:44
Separation of Immune Cell Subpopulations in Peripheral Blood Samples from Children with Infectious Mononucleosis
Published on: September 7, 2022
Infectious mononucleosis: ensuring a safe return to sport
1University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA. JM9M@virginia.edu.
The Physician and Sportsmedicine
|January 21, 2010
Summary
Infectious mononucleosis can cause prolonged fatigue and spleen issues, risking rupture. Sports medicine must manage these symptoms for safe athlete return to play.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Management
Background:
- Infectious mononucleosis presents unique clinical challenges including persistent fatigue and splenic complications.
- Enlargement and fragility of the spleen increase the risk of rupture in athletes affected by mononucleosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the clinical features of infectious mononucleosis relevant to sports participation.
- To guide sports medicine practitioners in managing athletes with mononucleosis.
- To inform decisions regarding disqualification and the safe return of athletes to sport.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical properties of infectious mononucleosis.
- Analysis of factors influencing return-to-play decisions for athletes.
- Emphasis on risk assessment for splenic injury and symptom duration.
Main Results:
- Prolonged fatigue is a significant symptom impacting athlete recovery.
- Splenomegaly and splenic fragility are common, posing a risk of rupture.
- Management strategies focus on preventing splenic injury and minimizing illness duration.
Conclusions:
- Sports medicine practitioners play a crucial role in managing infectious mononucleosis in athletes.
- Decisions on athlete disqualification and return to sport must prioritize safety and recovery.
- Minimizing illness duration and preventing splenic injury are key to successful athlete management.
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