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Lung function and bronchial responsiveness after Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in early childhood

Birgitte B Kjaer1, Jørgen S Jensen, Kim G Nielsen

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark. bbk@dadlnet.dk

Pediatric Pulmonology
|April 26, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in early childhood did not impact long-term lung function or bronchial responsiveness. This study found no lasting respiratory effects in children infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae is linked to asthma exacerbations in children and adults.
  • Its etiological role in asthma development is under investigation.
  • Early childhood infections may influence long-term respiratory health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in early childhood affects long-term lung function.
  • To assess the influence of early Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection on bronchial responsiveness.
  • Investigating the lasting respiratory consequences of childhood Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective clinical cohort study of children under 5 years old.
  • PCR testing for Mycoplasma pneumoniae and other respiratory pathogens.
  • Lung function testing (specific airway resistance) and bronchial hyperresponsiveness assessment (cold, dry air hyperventilation).

Main Results:

  • Sixty-five children (28 PCR-positive, 37 PCR-negative for M. pneumoniae) completed follow-up.
  • No significant differences in baseline lung function between M. pneumoniae-positive and -negative groups (P=0.45).
  • No significant differences in bronchial response to cold, dry air hyperventilation between groups (P=0.42).

Conclusions:

  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in early childhood is not associated with long-term lung function deficits.
  • Early childhood Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections do not appear to cause lasting bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
  • The study suggests no persistent negative respiratory effects from Mycoplasma pneumoniae in young children.

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