The presentation of cervical lymph node enlargement and positive Epstein-Barr virus antibody in a young adult is indicative of which condition?

The presentation of cervical lymph node enlargement alongside positive Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies is most indicative of infectious mononucleosis. Infectious mononucleosis, often referred to as "mono," is commonly caused by EBV, which is strongly associated with this clinical picture.

Infectious mononucleosis typically manifests with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, fatigue, and lymphadenopathy, particularly in the cervical region. The detection of antibodies specific to EBV, such as heterophile antibodies (often tested via the Monospot test), supports the diagnosis. This condition is prevalent among adolescents and young adults and is characterized by the immune response to the virus.

While other conditions like HIV or tuberculosis can present with lymphadenopathy, they do not specifically correlate with positive EBV antibodies in this context. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection can also cause similar symptoms but is less commonly associated with EBV-positive serology. Therefore, the presence of cervical lymph node enlargement and positive EBV antibodies together clearly points to infectious mononucleosis as the most likely diagnosis.