Leukocyte response in childhood infectious mononucleosis. Caused by Epstein-Barr virus
G. R. Fleisher, J. E. Paradise and E. T. Lennette
The usual leukocyte response in infectious mononucleosis (IM) has been
established in adults but not in children. Previously, the diagnosis of IM
often was difficult in childhood due to the lack of detectable heterophil
antibody response in many patients. Using Epstein-Barr virus-specific
serology, we have documented IM in 45 patients between 1 and 15 years of
age. the mean and ranges for the total leukocytes, percent lymphocytes, and
percent atypical lymphocytes are presented. These do not vary significantly
with age and are similar to those reported for adolescents and adults with
this illness.