What viral infection is commonly associated with an exudative sore throat and lymphadenopathy in teenagers?

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the viral infection most commonly associated with exudative sore throat and lymphadenopathy, particularly in teenagers. This condition is often referred to as infectious mononucleosis, which is prevalent in this age group due to lifestyle factors like sharing drinks and close social interactions.

EBV primarily spreads through saliva and can lead to symptoms such as severe fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, alongside the characteristic sore throat with white exudates. The hallmark of infectious mononucleosis is indeed the combination of these symptoms, making EBV a distinct etiology in this age demographic.

Other options do play a role in throat infections or lymphadenopathy but do not match the specific profile of EBV. Influenza, while it can cause a sore throat, typically presents with broader systemic symptoms like high fever and muscle aches without the prominent lymphadenopathy. Streptococcus pyogenes can cause a painful sore throat, known as strep throat, but it is primarily a bacterial infection and does not cause the other systemic symptoms associated with EBV. Cytomegalovirus can also lead to mono-like symptoms, but it is less commonly considered first in this age group when exudative sore throat and