Definition

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

• Bacterial pathogen causing respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia
• Common cause of atypical or “walking” pneumonia

Aetiology

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

• Bacterial pathogen from Mollicutes class
• Cell wall-deficient bacterium
• Infects respiratory tract

Risk Factors

Risk Factors for Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection

• Crowded environments (e.g., schools, military barracks)
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Common in young adults and adolescents

Pathophysiology

Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection Pathogenesis

• Infects respiratory tract
• Damages bronchial tubes and alveoli epithelial cells
• Induces inflammation
• Leads to pneumonia symptoms

Differential Diagnosis

Differential Diagnosis of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection

Conditions to Consider:

• Viral pneumonia
• Other bacterial pneumonias
• Fungal infections

Epidemiology

Epidemiology of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections

• Global occurrence, including the UK
• More common in late summer and early autumn
• Outbreaks in crowded settings like schools or residential institutions

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection:

• Persistent Cough:
  • Often dry in nature.
• Sore Throat.
• Headache.
• Fatigue and Malaise.
• Low-Grade Fever.
• Chest Discomfort.

Atypical Pneumonia:

• Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause atypical pneumonia.
• Symptoms are generally less severe compared to typical bacterial pneumonia.

Investigations

Laboratory Investigations for Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection:

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing: Detects Mycoplasma pneumoniae in respiratory specimens, confirming active infection.
• Serological Tests: Detect antibodies against Mycoplasma pneumoniae, aiding in diagnosing past or current infections.
• Chest X-rays: Assess lung involvement and pneumonia severity.

Management

Treatment of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection

• Antibiotics: Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin) or tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline)
• Choice based on severity and individual factors
• Supportive care: Rest, hydration, symptom relief

Prognosis

Prognosis of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection

• Generally good prognosis
• Most recover without complications
• Complications possible in severe or untreated cases:
  • Respiratory failure
  • Pleural effusion
  • Encephalitis

Complications

Complications of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infection

• Respiratory failure
• Pleural effusion
• Bronchitis
• Asthma exacerbation
• Encephalitis
• Myocarditis
• Rarely: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, haemolytic anaemia