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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
Central nervous system manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections
S Tsiodras1, I Kelesidis, T Kelesidis
14th Academic Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Attikon University Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 1 Rimini Street, Xaidari, 12462 Athens, Greece. tsiodras@med.uoa.gr
Abstract:
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is associated with several manifestations from the central nervous system (CNS) such as encephalitis, aseptic meningitis, acute transverse myelitis, stroke, and polyradiculopathy. In the current paper epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory and treatment data on these manifestations are reviewed. The M. pneumoniae induced immune dysregulation and its contributing role in the pathogenesis of neurological insult is discussed. The recent introduction in clinical practice of newer molecular diagnostic techniques has helped in establishing a firmer association between M. pneumoniae infection and CNS disease especially encephalitis. Clinicians should be aware of the potential association between M. pneumoniae infection and several CNS manifestations. The role of various anti-microbial or immunomodulating therapies in treating such manifestations should be further explored.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections can cause serious central nervous system (CNS) issues like encephalitis and meningitis. Further research is needed on treatments for these neurological complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections are linked to diverse central nervous system (CNS) manifestations.
- These include encephalitis, aseptic meningitis, acute transverse myelitis, stroke, and polyradiculopathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment data on CNS manifestations associated with M. pneumoniae.
- To discuss the role of M. pneumoniae-induced immune dysregulation in the pathogenesis of neurological injury.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on M. pneumoniae and CNS disease.
- Analysis of diagnostic techniques and their impact on establishing disease association.
Main Results:
- Molecular diagnostic techniques have strengthened the link between M. pneumoniae and CNS diseases, particularly encephalitis.
- Immune dysregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurological damage.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians must recognize the potential for M. pneumoniae to cause various CNS manifestations.
- Further investigation into antimicrobial and immunomodulatory therapies for these conditions is warranted.
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