Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Isolation of Tonsillar Mononuclear Cells to Study Ex Vivo Innate Immune Responses in a Human Mucosal Lymphoid Tissue
Published on: June 14, 2020
Otolaryngologic clinical patterns in pediatric infectious mononucleosis
T M Ganzel1, J L Goldman, T A Padhya
1Division of Otolaryngology, University of Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
Purpose:
Classic infectious mononucleosis (IM) is uncommon in children; therefore, the incidence of severe pharyngotonsillitis complicating the infection is not well established. This study was undertaken to better define the management of complications with special emphasis on the use of parenteral steroids and the role and timing of surgical management.
Materials And Methods:
A retrospective review of all cases of IM encountered between January 1989 through December 1993 was undertaken.
Results:
There were 109 patients admitted with IM. Sixty patients (55%) were admitted for severe pharyngotonsillitis. Twenty-nine patients in this subgroup were felt to have symptoms of severe upper airway obstruction and were treated with parenteral steroids. Surgical intervention was required in three patients.
Conclusion:
The study shows a higher incidence of admissions for severe pharyngotonsillitis complicating IM than reported in the adult literature. It suggests that routine use of parenteral steroids is indicated in cases of severe upper airway obstruction and may decrease the need for surgical intervention.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Tonsillitis II: Management
Atypical Pneumonia
Viral Meningitis
