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Cross-reacting antibodies to Micropolyspora faeni in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection
Abstract:
Two cases are described of severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in whom cross-reacting antibodies developed to a glycopeptide antigen of Micropolyspora faeni. The antibodies were predominantly IgG, although some IgM was detected. Precipitin responses to M. faeni were detected for 4 months after the initial illness in one case, and 1 month in the second case. The cross-reacting antibodies were closely related to the antibodies responsible for the complement fixation reaction to M. pneumoniae. It is suggested that a common polysaccharide antigen may exist on the surface membranes of M. pneumoniae and M. faeni. Initial studies of the frequency of the development of cross-reacting antibodies in M. pneumoniae infection suggest it is uncommon. Atypical cases of farmer's lung should be investigated to exclude M. pneumoniae infection.
Insights
Severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections can trigger cross-reacting antibodies to Micropolyspora faeni, suggesting a shared antigen. This uncommon finding may necessitate investigating atypical farmer's lung cases for Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of respiratory infections.
- Micropolyspora faeni is associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, such as farmer's lung.
- Cross-reactivity between microbial antigens can complicate serological diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection with cross-reacting antibodies to Micropolyspora faeni.
- To investigate the nature and duration of these cross-reacting antibodies.
- To explore the potential for shared antigens between M. pneumoniae and M. faeni.
Main Methods:
- Case study of two patients with severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
- Serological analysis including IgG and IgM antibody detection.
- Precipitin tests to assess antibody responses to M. faeni.
- Comparison of cross-reacting antibodies with those involved in M. pneumoniae complement fixation tests.
Main Results:
- Two patients with severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae developed IgG and some IgM antibodies cross-reacting with a Micropolyspora faeni antigen.
- Precipitin responses to M. faeni persisted for 1-4 months post-infection.
- The cross-reacting antibodies were similar to those involved in M. pneumoniae complement fixation.
- Development of cross-reacting antibodies appears uncommon in M. pneumoniae infections.
Conclusions:
- A common polysaccharide antigen may exist on the surface membranes of M. pneumoniae and M. faeni.
- Atypical farmer's lung cases should be evaluated for Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
- Cross-reacting antibodies can be a diagnostic consideration in certain respiratory infections.