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Updated: Jul 12, 2025

Optimized PCR-based Detection of Mycoplasma
Published on: June 20, 2011
Prevalence and incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium infection: a systematic review protocol
Amanda McCullough1, Michelle Palokas2
1School of Nursing, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA.
Objective:
The objective of this review is to determine the prevalence and incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium infection.
Introduction:
Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted pathogen that can cause reproductive health issues in men and women. Recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved testing has improved the capability to more readily diagnose and treat this infection. Determining the incidence and prevalence of this sexually transmitted infection is imperative to better understand the epidemiologic implications and long-term consequences of this disease process.
Inclusion Criteria:
Studies involving males and females of any age, race, or cultural background will be eligible. Studies conducted in any setting or geographical location that report on prevalence or incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium infection diagnosed by the FDA-approved Aptima Mycoplasma genitalium assay will be included.
Methods:
The proposed systematic review will be conducted in accordance with JBI methodology for systematic reviews of prevalence and incidence, and in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase, Web of Science, and Global Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology Network (GIDEON) databases will be searched, with no date limits. Prevalence and incidence data, experimental, quasi-experimental, observational, and descriptive studies will be included, and critically appraised by 2 independent reviewers. Data will be extracted using standardized JBI data extraction tools. If sufficient data are available, a meta-analysis will be conducted; otherwise, the findings will be presented in narrative format, including tables and figures to aid in data presentation, where appropriate.
Review Registration:
PROSPERO CRD42023415457.
Insights
This systematic review aims to determine the prevalence and incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium infections. Understanding these rates is crucial for assessing the impact of this sexually transmitted infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted pathogen linked to male and female reproductive health issues.
- Recent FDA-approved diagnostics enhance Mycoplasma genitalium detection and treatment.
- Assessing incidence and prevalence is vital for understanding the epidemiological impact and long-term consequences of this infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium infection.
- To synthesize current epidemiological data on Mycoplasma genitalium.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review adhering to JBI and PRISMA guidelines.
- Searches across MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and GIDEON without date restrictions.
- Inclusion of studies reporting prevalence or incidence of Mycoplasma genitalium diagnosed by FDA-approved assays, with critical appraisal by two independent reviewers.
Main Results:
- Data extraction using standardized JBI tools.
- Potential for meta-analysis if sufficient data are available.
- Findings will be presented narratively with tables and figures if meta-analysis is not feasible.
Conclusions:
- The review will provide a comprehensive overview of Mycoplasma genitalium prevalence and incidence.
- Findings will inform public health strategies and clinical management of this STI.
- This research highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance for Mycoplasma genitalium.

