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Mononucleosis

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Detection of infectious mononucleosis heterophile antibodies (IgM)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ IgM antibodies appear in serum of 85-90% of patients with infectious mononucleosis within 2-3 weeks of illness onset.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 3 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4432

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) immediately after collection.