Differential diagnoses of Pfeiffer’s glandular fever

Blood count changes with the atypical lymphocytes mentioned above also occur in infections with hepatitis viruses, human cytomegalovirus (CMV) and other herpes viruses. However, these do not produce heterophilic antibodies (see Paul-Bunnel test).

Therapy

There is no specific treatment for the Pfeiffer’s glandular fever, only a treatment of the symptoms (symptomatic treatment). The treatment of the fever and the pain are in the foreground. Ibuprofen or paracetamol can be taken as painkillers, but acetylsalicylic acid preparations, e.g. Aspirin®, should not be used because bleeding problems can occur in the event of surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy).

This should be performed in cases of severe course of Pfeiffer’s glandular fever with persistent fever, narrowing of the airways and respiratory distress, as this removes the site of the greatest virus multiplication. In addition, prednisolone, a drug that inhibits the immune system, can be taken for a short time in cases of severe throat symptoms and high fever, which leads to rapid improvement. A secondary infection with bacteria, e.g. with streptococci, is treated with penicillin.

Ampi- or amoxicillin must not be taken, however, as these often lead to skin reactions such as an acute skin rash (exanthema). In the case of Pfeiffer’s glandular fever, the therapy is usually very symptom-oriented. Homeopathic remedies such as globules can also be used.

Aconitum napellus is often used to treat sore throats. Apis mellifica and belladonna also act in the throat area, but are mainly applied to the tonsils. Ceanothus americanus and Cininum arsenicosum are the remedies of choice for fever and swelling of the spleen.

Lachesis can be used for swallowing difficulties.However, it is important to consult your doctor, especially if you have a high fever. A complication such as rupture of the spleen should also be clarified. Pfeiffer’s glandular fever is a disease that can classically be treated by a pediatrician or family doctor (depending on the age of the person affected).

However, if the diagnosis is not completely certain, the ear, nose and throat doctor is often involved in the treatment, as he is supposed to examine the tonsillitis. If complications such as swelling of the spleen or liver occur, internal medicine specialists are also involved in the treatment. If the infection spreads to the brain, neurologists can also be consulted.