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[Should presumptive meningoencephalitis treatment in adults be active against Mycoplasma pneumoniae?]

S Trouillier1, E Dionet, B Bocquier

  • 1Service des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Hôtel-Dieu, CHU, boulevard Léon-Malfreyt, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France. trouillier.s@club-internet.fr

Medecine Et Maladies Infectieuses
|April 17, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes meningoencephalitis, a serious complication. This study found it in 8.3% of encephalitis cases during an epidemic, highlighting the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Meningoencephalitis is a frequent central nervous system complication of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections.
  • The actual incidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae meningoencephalitis is likely underestimated.

Observation:

  • The study retrospectively analyzed 48 encephalitis cases diagnosed between 2004 and 2005 at a university hospital.
  • Four cases (8.3%) were attributed to Mycoplasma pneumoniae, with most patients experiencing seizures.
  • Two patients had concurrent pneumonia, and an epidemic of Mycoplasma pneumoniae was noted during the study period.

Findings:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae meningoencephalitis occurred in 8.3% of encephalitis cases during a 2004-2005 epidemic.
  • Initial symptoms often included seizures, and respiratory symptoms were present in some cases.
  • Antibiotic treatment showed a positive impact on the clinical course in only two patients.

Implications:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae should be considered in meningoencephalitis cases, especially with respiratory symptoms or during epidemics.
  • Empirical treatment for meningoencephalitis should include antibiotics effective against Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
  • Further investigation is warranted to understand the full spectrum and impact of Mycoplasma pneumoniae-associated neurological complications.

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