Final answer:
Infectious mononucleosis, or mono, is an infectious disease caused by the Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus, spread through saliva, and diagnosed by detecting heterophile antibodies in the blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infectious Mononucleosis
An infectious disease is a disease caused by a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. These diseases can be spread, directly or indirectly, from one person to another. Infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono, is one such disease. It is a common and mild infection typically caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (HHV-4) or less commonly by the cytomegalovirus (HHV-5). Mono is often transmitted by direct contact with body fluids such as saliva.
Inflammation is an innate nonspecific immune response characterized by symptoms such as erythema, edema, heat, pain, and altered function. It usually occurs at the site of injury or infection but can sometimes become systemic. Mono can cause inflammation and is associated with symptoms like fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
Infectious mononucleosis is diagnosed through the detection of antibodies in the blood, particularly heterophile antibodies, which can cause hemagglutination, or clumping, of red blood cells that can be visibly observed. This response is not unique to mono but can also be seen in other infectious diseases like hepatitis and rubella, as well as in some autoimmune diseases.