The Difference in Clinical Features and Hepatic Injury Characteristics Between Children and Adults With Infectious...

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Hepatology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Infectious mononucleosis (IM), primarily caused by Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), is a common viral illness.
• Clinical manifestations and disease severity of IM can vary significantly between pediatric and adult populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical features and hepatic injury characteristics of infectious mononucleosis (IM) in adult versus pediatric patients.
• To identify age-related differences in the presentation and complications of IM.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study was conducted involving 200 IM patients hospitalized between July 2015 and July 2025.
• Data collected included general information, clinical symptoms, laboratory results, and imaging findings.

Main Results:

• Adults (50.5%) showed longer fever (9 vs. 7 days) and hospitalization (8 vs. 7 days) than children (49.5%).
• Adults had higher rates of splenomegaly (76.24% vs. 46.46%) and hepatic injury (99.01% vs. 67.68%).
• Significantly higher ALT and AST levels were observed in adults compared to children (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• While both age groups present with classic IM symptoms, adults are more susceptible to prolonged fever, splenomegaly, and hepatic injury.
• Hepatic injury in IM is more frequent and severe in adults, with a higher incidence of cholestasis and potential for severe liver damage.