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Modeling Ascending Vaginal Infection, Preterm Birth, and Neonatal Morbidity in Mice
Published on: October 10, 2025
Mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas as neonatal pathogens
Ken B Waites1, Brenda Katz, Robert L Schelonka
1Department of Pathology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama 35249, USA. waites@path.uab.edu
Clinical Microbiology Reviews
|October 15, 2005
Summary
Genital mycoplasmas, including Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma, are increasingly recognized as perinatal pathogens. Advances in detection methods are improving our understanding of their role in neonatal infections and premature birth.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Genital mycoplasmas (Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma spp.) are linked to various adult and infant infections.
- Understanding their pathogenic potential is limited by detection challenges, high prevalence in healthy individuals, and research design flaws.
- Physicians and labs often overlook these fastidious organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of genital mycoplasmas in neonatal infections and premature birth.
- To examine the link between ureaplasmas and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
- To discuss advances in detection, taxonomy, host response, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing current research on genital mycoplasmas.
- Focus on epidemiological data, clinical associations, and laboratory diagnostic advancements.
- Inclusion of recent taxonomic changes and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Genital mycoplasmas are significant perinatal pathogens.
- Evidence suggests a link between ureaplasmas and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in neonates.
- Molecular detection methods have significantly improved identification.
Conclusions:
- There is a growing appreciation of genital mycoplasmas as important causes of neonatal morbidity.
- Improved laboratory detection, especially molecular assays, is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Further research and clinical attention are needed for effective management and treatment.
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