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Prevalence and clinical features of mycoplasma pneumoniae in Thai children

Jitladda Deerojanawong1, Nuanchan Prapphal, Subharee Suwanjutha

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Rama IV Rd, Bangkok 10330, Thailand. fmedjdr@md2.mdchula.ac.th

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|November 30, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes 15% of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in Thai children. Chest pain and lobar consolidation on X-ray suggest this infection, requiring specific antibiotic treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common childhood illness.
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a significant pathogen in pediatric CAP.
  • Understanding its prevalence and clinical features in Thailand is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Thai children with CAP.
  • To identify the clinical features associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
  • To inform appropriate diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Paired sera were analyzed for antibody rise or persistently high titers.
  • Mycoplasma DNA detection in respiratory secretions using PCR.
  • Clinical features were compared between M. pneumoniae positive and negative groups.

Main Results:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection was diagnosed in 15% (36/245) of children with CAP.
  • PCR demonstrated high sensitivity (78%) and specificity (98%) for diagnosing current infection.
  • Children with M. pneumoniae CAP were older and presented with chest pain and lobar consolidation.

Conclusions:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a significant cause of CAP across all age groups in Thai children.
  • Early identification of M. pneumoniae is essential for targeted antibiotic therapy.
  • Clinical indicators like chest pain and lobar consolidation aid in diagnosis.

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