Neutrophilic Leukocytosis in Infectious Mononucleosis: A Case Series Report

Abstract

Introduction: Infectious mononucleosis is a relatively common childhood disease caused by the epstein-barr virus (EBV). Typical cases are seen in young children and are mostly clinically mild or asymptomatic. In this disease, leukocytosis with predominance of lymphocytes is found. Classical clinical symptoms associated with atypical lymphocytosis in the peripheral blood smear helps in diagnosis. Case Presentation: The patients were proven cases of infectious mononucleosis disease and unlike the typical cases of this infection; they showed high ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C-reactive protein), and neutrophilic leukocytosis, instead of lymphocytosis. All of them were discharged in good general condition after receiving corticosteroids. Conclusions: According to our findings, EBV infection cannot be ruled out in exudative pharyngitis, despite having neutrophilic leukocytosis, high levels of ESR and CRP. Therefore, EBV diagnostic tests should be conducted in these patients.