A case of diffuse panbronchiolitis caused by Mycoplasma amphoriforme

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Mycoplasma amphoriforme, a species identified in 2003, is linked to congenital immune deficiency and bronchopneumonia.
• Limited data exists on the in vitro sensitivities of Mycoplasma amphoriforme.
• X-linked hypogammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by low levels of antibodies.

Observation:

• A patient with X-linked hypogammaglobulinemia and bronchiectasis presented with diffuse panbronchiolitis.
• Mycoplasma amphoriforme was identified as the causative agent in this patient.
• The patient's symptoms showed improvement following treatment with azithromycin.

Findings:

• This study reports the first instance of Mycoplasma amphoriforme causing diffuse panbronchiolitis.
• Azithromycin demonstrated efficacy in treating Mycoplasma amphoriforme-induced diffuse panbronchiolitis in an immunocompromised patient.
• Routine culture methods proved challenging for isolating Mycoplasma amphoriforme.

Implications:

• The findings underscore the need for considering culture-independent diagnostic methods when Mycoplasma amphoriforme infection is suspected.
• This case expands the known clinical manifestations associated with Mycoplasma amphoriforme.
• Understanding the sensitivities and diagnostic approaches for Mycoplasma amphoriforme is crucial for managing patients with primary immunodeficiencies.