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Monospot test

Infection and immunity tests · also printed as Monospot, Paul Bunnell, Heterophile antibody, Glandular fever screen, Infectious mononucleosis screen

Typical UK adult rangeExpected result: Negative

Negative is the expected result.

What this test measures

The Monospot detects the unusual antibodies that appear during glandular fever. It is quick but misses early cases and is unreliable in young children.

Why doctors request it

A first-line test for suspected glandular fever.

What commonly pushes it up

Glandular fever, usually from the second week of illness

What commonly pushes it down

A negative result is the usual finding

Everyday reasons for a value outside the range

Results can be equivocal and are then repeated
Recent vaccination or infection elsewhere can occasionally give a weak positive

About the sample

No fasting needed.

Written by a UK consultant physician. Typical UK adult reference ranges; your laboratory's own printed range takes precedence.

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This is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.