What are heterophile antibodies known to do during infectious mononucleosis?

Heterophile antibodies play a significant role in infectious mononucleosis, primarily associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). During this condition, these antibodies can cause various physiological effects, one of which is the induction of hemolysis and splenomegaly.

In infectious mononucleosis, the presence of heterophile antibodies indicates an immune response to the infection. When these antibodies are present, they can lead to the destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis), contributing to symptoms such as fatigue and jaundice. Additionally, splenomegaly, or enlargement of the spleen, occurs as part of the body’s response to the infection; the spleen is involved in filtering blood and responding to pathogens. Thus, the presence of heterophile antibodies is directly linked to these complications during infectious mononucleosis.

The other choices relate to different effects that do not accurately describe the role of heterophile antibodies in this particular context.