Infectious Mononucleosis Management in Athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Infectious mononucleosis is prevalent in athletic settings, with Epstein-Barr virus causing over 90% of cases.
• Current diagnostic and return-to-play protocols exhibit clinical variability.
• Splenic rupture is a significant, albeit rare, complication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a systematic approach for laboratory evaluation and return-to-play decisions in infectious mononucleosis.
• To reduce clinical variation in managing athletes with infectious mononucleosis.
• To highlight the role of serial ultrasonography in assessing splenic integrity.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical guidelines and literature on infectious mononucleosis management in athletes.
• Analysis of diagnostic laboratory workup variations.
• Evaluation of return-to-play criteria and the utility of serial ultrasonography.

Main Results:

• A standardized laboratory workup can improve diagnostic consistency.
• A systematic approach to return-to-play decisions can minimize variability.
• Serial ultrasonography has demonstrated utility in guiding return-to-play decisions by monitoring spleen status.

Conclusions:

• Standardized protocols for diagnosis and return-to-play are essential for athletes with infectious mononucleosis.
• Minimizing clinical variation through systematic approaches enhances patient safety.
• Serial ultrasonography is a valuable tool for informed decision-making regarding splenic rupture risk.