Infectious mononucleosis is often observed in otolaryngology as well as in other areas. Most symptoms remit in one or two weeks. In this study, we report a case of hemophagocytic syndrome caused by infectious mononucleosis, detailing the clinical course and treatment along with bibliographical considerations.
A 5-year-old b oy, scheduled to undergo tonsillectomy following persistent tonsillitis, visited the Nakatsugawa City Hospital with the chief complaints of sore throat and fever. Initial examination revealed red tonsils with a coating and swollen cervical lymph nodes. The patient also had ingestion difficulty, and was admitted to the hospital. Since the blood test revealed liver function failure, treatment was started with a diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis. In spite of fluid replacement and the administration of antibiotics, her fever did not decline, her liver function failure persisted, and pancytopenia developed. The patient was transferred to the Department of Pediatrics for further close examination and treatment. Furthermore, as the patient's conditions worsened and hemophagocytic syndrome was suspected, the patient was transferred to onother hospital. The patient was discharged after the symptoms subsided following the administration of a large amount of γ-glovenin.
