What Is Epstein Barr Virus?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
4. How Do Doctors Diagnose the Virus?
Many of the symptoms of the virus mimic other conditions, such as the cold or flu, so doctors typically use other diagnostic methods to determine infection. A common sign is an enlarged spleen, which a doctor can feel through palpation. The doctor will also palpate for swollen lymph nodes and look for white patches on the tonsils.
Because the virus attacks the white blood cells, the doctor may also order blood tests. These check for the level of the B cells in the blood and for antibodies, which would increase in response to the virus.
Advertisement
