CMV mononucleosis is clinically similar, but it is less likely to cause the severe exudative pharyngitis and marked cervical lymphadenopathy seen in classic EBV mono.
While both have rash and fever, DRESS is a severe drug reaction with marked eosinophilia and internal organ failure, a much more severe syndrome.
This is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis, not a differential.
Lymphoma can present with fever and lymphadenopathy, but the presence of atypical lymphocytes on a peripheral smear and a positive Monospot test point towards infectious mononucleosis.
This protozoan infection can mimic mono, but it is often associated with posterior cervical lymphadenopathy and is diagnosed with specific serology.
Hepatitis can cause fever and malaise, but it is distinguished by significant jaundice and markedly elevated liver transaminases.
