Primary Atypical Pneumonia - Mycoplasma Infections

The organism Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacteria that causes infections in the respiratory system. Less often, it causes an infection of the central nervous system, heart, or skin.

What is going on in the body?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a very contagious bacteria found only in humans. Young children infected with the bacteria often have no symptoms. Older children and adults often have upper respiratory infections. The windpipe and bronchial tubes may be infected. Less often, the person may have pneumonia or an ear infection.

Very rarely, the mycoplasma bacteria can cause infections in other parts of the body, including the following :

What are the causes and risks of the infection?

Mycoplasma infections are caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. The bacteria spreads from person to person through respiratory secretions. Outbreaks of mycoplasma infections are often seen in young adults who live in crowded situations. For example, outbreaks are seen in college dormitories and military housing.

Individuals at high risk for mycoplasma infections include those who have the following conditions:

Mycoplasma pneumonia most often occurs in fall and early winter.

What are the signs and symptoms of the infection?

Mycoplasma infections generally affect the respiratory system. Individuals with mycoplasma respiratory infections may have the following symptoms:

Mycoplasma infections in other body systems cause different symptoms, depending on the organs that are involved.

How is the infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis of mycoplasma infections begins with a medical history and physical exam. Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria can be found in the sputum and other body fluids. An antibody titer test can detect antibodies to the infection. A chest X-ray will also help with the diagnosis.

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Good hand-washing can help prevent some mycoplasma infections. High risk individuals may be given preventive antibiotics if they are in very close contact with an infected person.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

Rarely, mycoplasma infections can cause permanent lung damage. They can also cause nervous system disorders or heart damage.

What are the risks to others?

Mycoplasma infections are contagious. They can be spread to others through respiratory secretions.

What are the treatments for the infection?

Following are some of the antibiotics commonly used to treat mycoplasma infections:

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antibiotics may cause stomach upset, rash, or allergic reactions.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

With treatment, people usually recover fully from mycoplasma infections.

How is the infection monitored?

The individual may have regular visits with the healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.

Author:Danielle Zerr, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:05/31/01
Reviewer:Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
Date Reviewed:09/24/01