Serological follow-up of children with infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr virus.

Ninety children, most under 6 years of age, 73 of whom were suffering from a disease suspect of infectious mononucleosis, were examined serologically for EBV infection. Acute EBV infection was demonstrated in 40 cases. These children were followed up until the end of the second year by examining serum samples taken every month of every third month for anti-VCA-IgM, anti-VCA-IgG, anti-VCA-IgA anti-EBNA, and for the specific antibodies to the components D and R of the early antigen. Heterophil antibodies were examined by agglutination of sheep and horse erythrocytes. The temporal course of the antibody response was similar to those reported in adults while anti-EA-D and heterophil antibodies were demonstrated less frequently.