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Updated: May 6, 2026

Murine Oropharyngeal Aspiration Model of Ventilator-associated and Hospital-acquired Bacterial Pneumonia
Published on: June 28, 2018
[Mycoplasma-pneumoniae-associated mucositis]
Alinda G Vos1, Michèle H J Goossens, Steven F T Thijsen
1Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht.
Background:
The pathogen Mycoplasma pneumonia is a frequent cause of respiratory tract infections, especially in adolescents. Less well known is that this infection may also be associated with extrapulmonary manifestations including M. pneumonia associated mucositis (MPAM).
Case Description:
A 19-year-old Dutch man was admitted to the hospital with severe mucositis, stomatitis, bilateral conjunctivitis, urethritis and mild exanthema on his arms. He had a one-week history of coughing and fever. Thorough microbiological investigations were implemented. After a few days both the IgM titre and polymerase chain reaction investigations for M. pneumonia from a throat swab taken on admission proved to be positive. Treatment with doxycycline resulted in rapid improvement in clinical condition. All mucosal lesions almost healed within two weeks.
Conclusion:
M. pneumonia infections may be associated with the triad of stomatitis, conjunctivitis and urethritis in the absence of extensive skin manifestations. The prognosis is favourable.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections can cause severe mucositis, stomatitis, conjunctivitis, and urethritis, even without significant skin issues. Prompt antibiotic treatment leads to rapid recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
- Urology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae commonly causes respiratory infections, particularly in adolescents.
- Extrapulmonary manifestations, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae associated mucositis (MPAM), are less recognized.
- MPAM involves inflammation of mucous membranes and can present with diverse symptoms.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male presented with severe mucositis, stomatitis, conjunctivitis, urethritis, and mild exanthema.
- Initial symptoms included cough and fever.
- Diagnostic tests confirmed Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection via IgM titre and PCR.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms resolved rapidly following doxycycline treatment.
- Mucosal lesions healed within two weeks.
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can manifest as a triad of stomatitis, conjunctivitis, and urethritis.
Implications:
- Recognizing MPAM is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- This triad presentation can occur with minimal cutaneous involvement.
- Early intervention with antibiotics like doxycycline improves patient outcomes.
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