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Neurological disorders associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection
S Sotgiu1, M Pugliatti, G Rosati
1Institute of Clinical Neurology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy. stesot@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Neurological syndromes caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection are occasionally reported in adults, usually in the post-infectious period, and three computed tomography documented cases have recently appeared in this journal. Here we present the cases of three young women with recent respiratory tract infection caused by MP some weeks prior to neurological complication documented by magnetic resonance imaging. Two cases suffered from demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). The other case had a middle cerebral artery thrombosis, a rare complication of MP infection. Another potential risk factor for stroke in the latter case was the use of oral contraceptives. Recent infection with MP is discussed as a risk factor for cerebrovascular disorders and CNS demyelinating diseases.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can cause neurological issues like demyelinating disorders and stroke in young women. Early diagnosis and awareness are crucial for managing these rare post-infectious complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Neurological syndromes linked to Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection are infrequently documented in adults.
- Recent literature highlights CT-confirmed cases, prompting further investigation into MP's neurological impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present three cases of young women experiencing neurological complications following MP respiratory tract infection.
- To investigate the association between recent MP infection and central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating diseases and cerebrovascular disorders.
Main Methods:
- Case series presentation of three young women with recent MP infection.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used to document neurological complications.
- Review of potential contributing factors, including oral contraceptive use.
Main Results:
- Two patients developed CNS demyelinating disorders.
- One patient experienced middle cerebral artery thrombosis, a rare MP complication.
- All cases involved recent MP respiratory tract infection preceding neurological events.
Conclusions:
- Recent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is a potential risk factor for cerebrovascular disorders and CNS demyelinating diseases.
- The findings underscore the importance of considering MP infection in the differential diagnosis of neurological complications.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying MP-associated neurological syndromes.