An abnormal increase of mononuclear leucocytes or monocytes in the bloodstream; SYN. mono.
Viral disease (also called “kissing disease”, since it may be passed by body fluids, including saliva) characterized at onset by fever and painfully swollen lymph nodes (in the neck); there may also be digestive upset, sore throat, and skin rashes. Lassitude persists for months and even years, and recovery is often very slow. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. A serious to fatal complication may be hepatitis.