DEAR DR. GOTT: I am writing to ask for information on mono. I have two sons who have had mono for a year and can’t get rid of it. They are being given B-12 shots. Can they get too much of this? What causes mono, can it be cured, and what is a good treatment?

DEAR READER: Mononucleosis is a common infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is diagnosed most frequently in adolescence. The infection is marked by easy fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, an enlarged spleen and frequent liver inflammation. Ordinarily, patients recover completely after several weeks or months, but, in unusual situations, symptoms can become chronic. Mono is diagnosed through blood tests.

There is no consistent method of cure, but most patients respond to rest. To my knowledge, vitamin B-12 injections are not particularly helpful but are safe. Excess B-12 is excreted quickly in the urine.

In my opinion, a programme of watchful waiting is appropriate. Chronic EBV infection, once a popular diagnosis, has fallen into disrepute and is downplayed by most authorities, even though blood tests for mono may remain positive for years.

If you and your sons remain concerned, I recommend that they be examined by a hematologist, who can place the situation in the proper perspective and, perhaps, offer further advice.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Medical Specialists.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have found what I believe to be an added advantage to using the bar of soap between the sheets. Not only does it totally relieve the leg cramps and uneasy feeling in my feet and legs, but it brings comfort to my hip-and-back area. You see, I use two bars of soap. I found the best kinds to use are Ivory and Olay.

I have always been a skeptic. I tried the soap the first time I read about it in your column.

I will continue to experiment with the soap for other discomforts.EAR READER: Some readers are convinced that the success of soap therapy is due to a placebo effect (a psychological conviction without objective scientific data). I can accept that. If soap therapy works, however, keep using it. The technique is safe, cheap and easy.