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Mycoplasma hominis infection of the central nervous system in newborn infants

P A Mårdh

    Sexually Transmitted Diseases
    |October 1, 1983
    PubMed

    Insights

    Central nervous system infections in newborns caused by Mycoplasma hominis can lead to meningitis or meningoencephalitis. While some infants recover, others may experience severe sequelae, though antibiotic therapy can be effective.

    Area of Science:

    • Neonatal infectious diseases
    • Neuroscience
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Mycoplasma hominis infections in the central nervous system (CNS) of neonates are not well-characterized.
    • These infections occur in both full-term and premature infants, sometimes associated with congenital malformations like myelomeningocele.
    • M. hominis has been identified in cases of brain abscesses.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe the clinical presentation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings, and outcomes of central nervous system infections caused by Mycoplasma hominis in newborn infants.
    • To evaluate the efficacy of antibiotic therapy in treating these infections.

    Main Methods:

    • Case series or retrospective review of neonatal patients diagnosed with CNS infections.
    • Analysis of clinical data, including symptoms, neurological signs, and congenital anomalies.
    • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis for Mycoplasma hominis detection, glucose, protein, and cell counts.
    • Assessment of treatment regimens and patient outcomes.

    Main Results:

    • Infected infants typically present with signs of meningitis or meningoencephalitis, with potential development of hydrocephalus.
    • Cerebrospinal fluid analysis often reveals reduced glucose, elevated protein, and high white blood cell counts (mononuclear or polymorphonuclear predominance).
    • Mycoplasma hominis was isolated from CSF when other bacteria were absent; outcomes varied, with some infants succumbing to infection, others recovering fully, and some developing sequelae like hemiplegia despite treatment.

    Conclusions:

    • Mycoplasma hominis represents a significant cause of CNS infections in neonates, presenting with diverse clinical manifestations and outcomes.
    • Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy, such as tetracycline or lincomycin, are crucial for eradicating the organism from CSF and improving patient prognosis.
    • Despite effective treatment, long-term neurological sequelae can occur, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and supportive care.

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