Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Mononucleosis
Moderate
4
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Depression
Moderate
5
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Mononucleosis
Infectious mononucleosis, often called mono, is a contagious viral infection. It commonly causes extreme tiredness, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes an enlarged spleen or liver. Most cases are caused by Epstein-Barr virus. Symptoms often develop gradually and most people recover, although fatigue can continue for several weeks or occasionally longer.
Depression
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent low mood or loss of interest or pleasure that affects daily life. It may also involve changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, motivation, and feelings about oneself. Depression can vary in severity and may result from an interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Symptoms
Shared
FatigueOnly in Left Disease
Difficulty Swallowing Fever Swollen Lymph NodesOnly in Right Disease
Depressed Mood Excessive Sleepiness Irritability Mood SwingsCauses
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Infection StressOnly in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Mononucleosis
Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and physical examination, including examination of the throat and lymph nodes and checking for enlargement of the liver or spleen. A healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for changes associated with mononucleosis or antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus. A rapid mono test may be used in appropriate circumstances, although additional testing may be needed when the result is unclear.
Depression
Depression is diagnosed through a clinical assessment that considers mood, interest or pleasure, sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, thoughts, and daily functioning. A clinician may also review medical history, medications, substance use, and other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Prevention
Mononucleosis
There is no vaccine that prevents infectious mononucleosis. The risk of spreading the infection can be reduced by avoiding kissing and by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, or lip balm with someone who has mono. Good hand hygiene is also useful. Because the virus may remain in saliva after symptoms improve, people should follow appropriate precautions during recovery and according to medical advice.
Depression
Depression cannot always be prevented, but regular physical activity, adequate sleep, supportive relationships, stress management, avoidance of harmful substance use, and early attention to persistent mood changes may support mental health. People with recurrent depression may benefit from an individualized prevention and treatment plan.
Risk Factors
Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis is particularly common among teenagers and young adults, although infection can occur at any age. Risk increases with close contact with an infected person because the virus is commonly spread through saliva. Sharing drinks, food, utensils, or personal items that contact saliva can also transmit the infection. Previous lack of exposure to Epstein-Barr virus may make a person susceptible to symptomatic infection.
Depression
Risk factors include personal or family history of depression, major or prolonged stress, trauma, social isolation, chronic medical conditions, certain medications, substance use, and major life changes. Some people may also have increased vulnerability because of genetic or biological factors. Having a risk factor does not necessarily mean that a person will develop the condition.
Treatment
Mononucleosis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Depression
Treatment comparison will be available soon.