Nasopharyngeal obstruction in infectious mononucleosis

Obstruction of the upper respiratory tract is an alarming and serious manifestation of infectious mononucleosis. The physician must distinguish this disease from other causes of upper airway obstruction. The presence of nasal obstruction by viscous secretions can aid in establishing the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis. Steroid therapy should be initiated as soon as respiratory obstruction is apparent and infectious mononucleosis is suspected.