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Known and newer manifestations by mycoplasma pneumoniae in adults
Abstract:
Although M. pneumoniae is a well recognised respiratory pathogen both in children and in young adults, its infections have shown recently some pathomorphism and may also involve other organ systems. The paper reviews the various clinical syndromes in adults by M. pneumoniae, with particular emphasis on those more unusual and nevertheless seen by us. In this connection the possibility of pleural effusions (with a well defined cytology) associated or not with typical Mycoplasma pneumoniae and of chronic bronchopneumonias eventually evolving even in pulmonary fibrosis is stressed. Moreover, the development of M. pneumoniae respiratory infections during the course or hematological malignancies and their characteristics are described in some detail because of the relative rarity of this kind of infections in the above patients. Finally, some less frequently reported manifestations of M. pneumoniae infections, as hemolytic anemia, hepatitis and others are described and discussed.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections are increasingly presenting with unusual symptoms beyond the respiratory tract in adults. This review highlights atypical syndromes, including pleural effusions and chronic bronchopneumonia, emphasizing evolving M. pneumoniae pathology.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a known respiratory pathogen in children and young adults.
- Recent observations suggest pathomorphism in M. pneumoniae infections, with potential involvement of other organ systems.
- Clinical manifestations in adults are diverse and can be atypical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diverse clinical syndromes caused by M. pneumoniae in adults.
- To emphasize unusual and less frequently reported manifestations.
- To discuss the characteristics of M. pneumoniae infections in immunocompromised patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical syndromes associated with M. pneumoniae in adults.
- Emphasis on case series and clinical observations.
- Discussion of pathomorphism and extrapulmonary manifestations.
Main Results:
- M. pneumoniae can cause pleural effusions with characteristic cytology.
- Chronic bronchopneumonias, potentially leading to pulmonary fibrosis, are observed.
- Infections in patients with hematological malignancies present unique characteristics.
- Extrapulmonary manifestations include hemolytic anemia and hepatitis.
Conclusions:
- M. pneumoniae exhibits evolving clinical presentations in adults, extending beyond typical respiratory illness.
- Atypical presentations such as pleural effusions and chronic lung disease require consideration.
- M. pneumoniae infections in immunocompromised individuals and extrapulmonary manifestations warrant further investigation.