OVERVIEW

What is Mycoplasma Pneumonia?

Generally speaking, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is an organism that falls between bacteria and viruses, and it is the smallest microorganism capable of independent survival in nature.

However, in a broader sense, Mycoplasma is also classified as a type of bacteria.

Mycoplasma is ubiquitous and primarily infects the human respiratory system, affecting both adults and children. With increasing age, the proportion of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections rises: <2 years: 2%, 2–4 years: 5%, 5–9 years: 16%, 10–17 years: 23%. Among college students and military recruits, the proportion can be as high as 50%. When it infects the lungs, it causes Mycoplasma pneumonia. Additionally, it can infect other parts of the respiratory tract, leading to tracheitis, bronchitis, pharyngitis, etc.

After contracting Mycoplasma pneumonia, symptoms such as coughing, sputum production, and fever may occur, and it can be treated with antibiotics.

SYMPTOMS

What are the manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection may worsen asthma symptoms and can cause wheezing in children without asthma. Therefore, Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia may also present with symptoms such as fever, cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath, but these are not specific to this type of pneumonia.

A more typical manifestation of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is characterized by "severe symptoms, mild physical signs, and obvious lung imaging findings." This means the cough may be severe, but lung auscultation may not show significant abnormalities, while chest X-rays may reveal patchy or even extensive lung infiltrates.

Extrapulmonary symptoms are also an important aspect of Mycoplasma-related diseases and can aid in diagnosis. These include hemolysis (anemia), rashes, joint swelling/pain, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), central nervous system symptoms (lethargy, limb weakness, unsteadiness), and cardiovascular symptoms (such as palpitations and chest tightness).

CAUSES

Who is commonly affected by Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia?

Due to immature immune mechanisms, infants and young children rarely develop pneumonia even with evidence of infection. Therefore, Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia mostly occurs in children over 5 years old and adults.

Is Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia contagious?

Like other respiratory viruses and bacteria, Mycoplasma pneumoniae is contagious, primarily transmitted through infectious respiratory droplets. However, its contagiousness is not as strong as that of infectious diseases. Generally, wearing masks, covering coughs or sneezes, and frequent handwashing can effectively prevent transmission.

DIAGNOSIS

What tests are needed for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia?

Based on clinical manifestations, physical examination, and routine tests (including complete blood count, C-reactive protein, chest X-ray, etc.), a preliminary diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia can be made.

To confirm whether the pathogen causing pneumonia is Mycoplasma pneumoniae, further pathogen testing is required. The most commonly used test is the cold agglutinin test. Additionally, serum-specific antibody testing, respiratory secretion (sputum, nasal mucus, throat swab) culture, or PCR testing for specific nucleic acids may be performed.

TREATMENT

How to treat Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia? How long does the treatment last?

In addition to symptomatic treatments such as antipyretics for fever and nebulization for cough, the primary treatment for Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia involves macrolide antibiotics.

Azithromycin is the first-line choice due to its strong efficacy, lower resistance rates, and less frequent dosing. Alternatives include clarithromycin and erythromycin.

For non-severe infections, oral azithromycin can be administered, with a total dose of 30 mg/kg divided over a 3-day or 5-day course. Typically, one course is sufficient, though severe cases may require two courses.

Does Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia require hospitalization?

Whether hospitalization is needed depends on the severity of the illness. Mild cases can be treated outpatient, while severe cases—such as those with persistent high fever, rapid breathing, or lung consolidation—require hospitalization.

Can Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia recur after recovery?

With adequate and complete treatment, Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia can be cured. However, since immunity after infection does not last long, reinfection is possible.

DIET & LIFESTYLE

Can children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia still go to school or kindergarten?

Children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia usually experience symptoms such as fever, cough, rapid breathing, and wheezing. In such cases, they are not suitable for attending school, not only because they may infect others but also because rest is crucial for recovery. If symptoms later ease and the condition is not severe, they can return to school with appropriate precautions, such as wearing a mask.

What should be paid attention to in daily life during the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia?

During treatment, it is important to rest and ensure adequate sleep. At the same time, a balanced diet should be maintained—there is no need to avoid certain foods specifically due to pneumonia.

PREVENTION

Is there a vaccine to prevent Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia?

Currently, there is no vaccine available for Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The best ways to prevent Mycoplasma pneumonia include frequent handwashing, wearing masks during peak seasons, ensuring proper ventilation, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and improving overall physical fitness.