Mononucleosis tests are blood tests to look for antibodies that indicate mononucleosis (mono), which is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The antibodies are made by the immune system to fight an infection.

Mono tests include:

• Monospot test (heterophil test). This quick screening test detects a type of antibody (heterophil antibody) that forms during certain infections. A sample of blood is placed on a microscope slide and mixed with other substances. If heterophil antibodies are present, the blood clumps (agglutinates). This result usually indicates a mono infection. Monospot testing can usually detect antibodies 2 to 9 weeks after a person is infected. It generally is not used to diagnose mono that started more than 6 months earlier.

This test requires that we locate a collection site near you CLICK HERE