Mapping the Evolution of Diagnostic Research on Mycoplasma pneumoniae: A Bibliometric Analysis (1980-2025)

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is a major etiological agent of respiratory tract infections. This study sought to systematically map the current landscape, thematic progression, collaborative networks, and emerging priorities in diagnostic research on MP infections. Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection from 1 January 1980, to 12 May 2025. Bibliometric and visualization analyses across countries/regions, institutions, authors, co-cited references, keywords, and disease-related terms were conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Pajek, and SCImago Graphica. Analysis of 2093 articles revealed consistent growth in research output related to MP diagnosis. Most publications originated in China (n = 623). The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention demonstrated the greatest total link strength in institutional collaboration networks. Key high-frequency keywords reflect the ongoing transition from traditional pathogen confirmation to integrated diagnostic approaches incorporating molecular testing, macrolide-resistance detection, co-infection evaluation, and risk stratification. Current research has increasingly targeted diagnostic optimization and the early identification of refractory or severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. This study provides a structured overview of the knowledge structure, thematic evolution, and technological frontiers in MP diagnostic research. The findings highlight key challenges, thereby offering guidance for interdisciplinary innovation and informing future diagnostic research directions.