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Antigen-Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Specific Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Published on: February 24, 2023
Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis and laboratory detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections
Thomas Prescott Atkinson1, Mitchell F Balish, Ken B Waites
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
Abstract:
Since its initial description in the 1940s and eventual elucidation as a highly evolved pathogenic bacterium, Mycoplasma pneumoniae has come to be recognized as a worldwide cause of primary atypical pneumonia. Beyond its ability to cause severe lower respiratory illness and milder upper respiratory symptoms it has become apparent that a wide array of extrapulmonary infectious and postinfectious events may accompany the infections in humans caused by this organism. Autoimmune disorders and chronic diseases such as asthma and arthritis are increasingly being associated with this mycoplasma, which frequently persists in individuals for prolonged periods. The reductive evolutionary process that has led to the minimal genome of M. pneumoniae suggests that it exists as a highly specialized parasitic bacterium capable of residing in an intracellular state within the respiratory tissues, occasionally emerging to produce symptoms. This review includes discussion of some of the newer aspects of our knowledge on this pathogen, characteristics of clinical infections, how it causes disease, the recent emergence of macrolide resistance, and the status of laboratory diagnostic methods.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes atypical pneumonia and various extrapulmonary issues. This review covers its characteristics, disease mechanisms, emerging macrolide resistance, and diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a significant global cause of atypical pneumonia.
- This pathogen is increasingly linked to extrapulmonary manifestations, autoimmune disorders, and chronic conditions like asthma and arthritis.
- M. pneumoniae can persist in hosts for extended periods, suggesting a specialized parasitic lifestyle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- To discuss its clinical characteristics, pathogenesis, and associated diseases.
- To highlight recent developments in macrolide resistance and diagnostic methods.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- Information was gathered from scientific literature on M. pneumoniae.
- Key aspects discussed include clinical presentations, disease mechanisms, and resistance patterns.
Main Results:
- M. pneumoniae causes both respiratory and extrapulmonary illnesses.
- Associations with chronic diseases and autoimmune disorders are increasingly recognized.
- Emergence of macrolide resistance is a growing concern.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a complex pathogen with diverse clinical implications.
- Understanding its pathogenesis, resistance, and diagnostics is crucial for effective management.
- Further research is needed to address challenges posed by this persistent bacterium.
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