What is an unusual complication associated with infectious mononucleosis?

Hemolytic anemia is recognized as an unusual complication associated with infectious mononucleosis, which is primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In the context of infectious mononucleosis, hemolytic anemia can arise due to the development of autoimmune hemolytic anemia, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own red blood cells. This is a result of the increased production of antibodies that can cross-react with erythrocyte antigens during the infection.

Although splenic infarctions can occur due to splenic enlargement and rupture in severe cases, they are more common and are not classified as unusual. Dactylitis, which refers to the swelling of fingers or toes, is generally associated with conditions like sickle cell disease or infections like parvovirus rather than mononucleosis. Giant platelets are more indicative of certain bone marrow disorders or conditions like myeloproliferative syndromes and are not typically linked to mononucleosis.

Understanding the implications of hemolytic anemia in the context of infectious mononucleosis provides insight into how viral infections can lead to autoimmune responses, thereby highlighting its unusual nature compared to other more frequently observed complications of the disease.