The genital mycoplasmas: serological inquiries

Serological studies on the genital mycoplasmas (U. urealyticum and M. hominis) are briefly reviewed. Newly developed serological tests from our laboratory have been applied to the studies of mycoplasma strains and antibody responses in patients. The data indicate that genital mycoplasmas are serologically diverse, with at least 11 serotypes of U. urealyticum and 7 of M. hominis. No one serotype predominates in relation to any known association with illness. However, serological and cultural data indicate a strong link between genital mycoplasmas and perinatal morbidity and mortality.