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Mycoplasma hominis: a placental pathogen?
Abstract:
Current information on the role played by Mycoplasma hominis in placental inflammation was reviewed. M. hominis is associated with chorioamnionitis and funisitis, but the clinical significance of this association in not clear. Further research on the role of the organism in perinatal disease is needed. Meanwhile, in a gravely ill infant with a history of prolonged rupture of the placental membranes, chorioamnionitis, and funisitis, M. hominis should probably be considered a potential pathogen, cultures for this organism should be performed, and therapy with an antibiotic regimen effective against M. hominis should be instituted.
Insights
Mycoplasma hominis may play a role in placental inflammation, specifically chorioamnionitis and funisitis. Further research is needed, but consider M. hominis a potential pathogen in severely ill infants with these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma hominis is a bacterium that can colonize the lower genital tract.
- Placental inflammation, including chorioamnionitis and funisitis, is a significant concern in perinatal medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current information on the role of Mycoplasma hominis in placental inflammation.
- To assess the clinical significance of M. hominis in perinatal disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating Mycoplasma hominis and placental inflammation.
- Clinical case review of a severely ill infant with prolonged rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and funisitis.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasma hominis is associated with chorioamnionitis and funisitis.
- The precise clinical significance of this association remains unclear.
- A case of a severely ill infant with these conditions is presented.
Conclusions:
- Further research is required to elucidate the role of M. hominis in perinatal disease.
- In severe cases with chorioamnionitis and funisitis, M. hominis should be considered a potential pathogen.
- Cultures for M. hominis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are recommended in such cases.