Infectious mononucleosis, also known as glandular fever or mono, is a viral illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Multiple sclerosis (MS), on the other hand, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

While these two conditions may seem unrelated at first glance, researchers have found a significant link between infectious mononucleosis and multiple sclerosis. In this article, we’ll explore this link and what it means for those with these conditions.

What is Infectious Mononucleosis?

Infectious mononucleosis is a viral illness that is highly contagious and primarily affects teenagers and young adults. Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and a general feeling of malaise.

The onset of infectious mononucleosis can be sudden and can last for several weeks or even months.

EBV, the virus that causes infectious mononucleosis, is a member of the herpes family of viruses. Once a person is infected with EBV, the virus remains in their body for life, although symptoms typically only occur during the initial infection.

In some cases, however, EBV can reactivate and cause symptoms years after the initial infection.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The immune system attacks the myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage.

This damage can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

MS is a progressive disease, which means that symptoms can worsen over time. There is currently no cure for MS, although there are many treatments available that can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

The Link Between Infectious Mononucleosis and Multiple Sclerosis

While the exact cause of multiple sclerosis is still unknown, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to the development of the disease. One of these factors is infectious mononucleosis.

In a study published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that individuals who had a history of infectious mononucleosis were more than twice as likely to develop multiple sclerosis later in life.

This link was particularly strong in individuals who had mono during childhood or adolescence.

So why does infectious mononucleosis increase the risk of multiple sclerosis? It’s still not entirely clear, but researchers have several theories.

Theories About the Link

One theory is that EBV, the virus that causes infectious mononucleosis, may trigger an autoimmune response in some individuals. When the immune system tries to fight off the virus, it may also attack the myelin in the central nervous system.

This could ultimately lead to the development of multiple sclerosis.

Another theory is that the initial infection with EBV may somehow damage the immune system, making it more likely to develop multiple sclerosis later on.

Some researchers believe that EBV may cause epigenetic changes in the DNA of immune cells, which could alter their function and increase the risk of autoimmune diseases like MS.

Still, other researchers believe that infectious mononucleosis may simply serve as a “trigger” for multiple sclerosis in individuals who are already genetically predisposed to the disease.

In other words, infectious mononucleosis alone may not be enough to cause MS, but it could be the event that sets off the chain reaction that leads to the development of the disease.

Conclusion

The link between infectious mononucleosis and multiple sclerosis is still not entirely understood. However, the evidence suggests that individuals who have had mono may be at an increased risk of developing MS later in life.

While this news can be concerning, it’s important to remember that not everyone who has had mono will develop MS, and that there are many other factors that can contribute to the development of the disease. If you’re concerned about your risk of developing MS, talk to your doctor about your family history and any other risk factors you may have.