Analysis of mycoplasmal pleural effusion by the polymerase chain reaction

Ten pediatric patients with mycoplasmal pleuritis were tested for the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in pleural fluid by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Three of the four PCR positive cases left a persistent consolidation. The remaining one was an infant who required mechanical ventilation. PCR may be useful in predicting delayed resolution of roentgenographic abnormality.