Is Mycoplasma pneumoniae contagious?

Written by Wang Xiang Yu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Mycoplasma pneumoniae is infectious. In fact, we need to understand what Mycoplasma pneumoniae is: it is a relatively small microorganism that can live independently, positioned between bacteria and viruses. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is spread through the respiratory tract—normal people can become infected by inhaling secretions expelled through coughing, sneezing, laughing, or talking loudly by someone who has Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. Transmission mainly occurs via the respiratory route. Clinically, it is common to find sequential or simultaneous occurrences of Mycoplasma pneumoniae among inhabitants of a dormitory or members of a household. Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is widespread globally, and most cases are sporadic, with regional outbreaks happening approximately every three to six years. These outbreaks can last for a long time, sometimes over a year.

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What is Mycoplasma pneumoniae?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is relatively common in clinical settings, but what exactly is Mycoplasma pneumoniae? Mycoplasma pneumoniae is different from ordinary bacteria and also from viruses. It is smaller than bacteria but larger than viruses, and it exists between bacteria and viruses as the smallest microorganism that can live independently. After infecting humans, Mycoplasma pneumoniae often causes bronchial pneumonia, with symptoms such as fever and cough. After treatment with sensitive antibiotics, most cases can recover within two to three weeks.

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Mycoplasma pneumoniae elevated causes

Hospital tests show elevated levels of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, indicating an infection with this pathogen in the body. This can cause symptoms such as sore throat, cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, although symptoms may not be typical in some patients. Regardless of the presence of these symptoms, once a Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is confirmed, it is necessary to choose sensitive antimicrobial drugs to control the infection. Typically, macrolide antibiotics such as Roxithromycin, Azithromycin, or Clarithromycin can be selected. Generally, one of these is chosen and used over a course of treatment. A re-examination should be conducted seven to ten days later. During the treatment period, avoid consuming spicy foods, seafood, and fried or pickled foods. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause

Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause mycoplasma pneumonia, which refers to the acute inflammatory changes in the respiratory tract and lungs caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. At the same time, there can be pharyngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumonia accounts for more than one-third of non-bacterial pneumonia, or 10% of pneumonia caused by various reasons. Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is more prevalent in the autumn and winter seasons, but the seasonal differences are not significant. After being infected with mycoplasma pneumonia, the first symptom may be fatigue, sore throat, and headache, followed by paroxysmal coughing, fever, loss of appetite, and some people may experience diarrhea, muscle pain, ear pain, etc. Most cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia can be cured, but a small number of people may worsen, requiring medical treatment.

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The difference between Mycoplasma pneumonia and pneumonia

Mycoplasma pneumonia, which is also quite common clinically, differs from other types of pneumonia in that it is a specific type of pneumonia. Besides mycoplasma pneumonia, there are other types such as bacterial pneumonia, fungal pneumonia, viral pneumonia, and chlamydial pneumonia. For treating mycoplasma pneumonia, it is crucial to actively cooperate with the doctor for medication to shorten the course of the disease and alleviate suffering. Commonly used medications include macrolides and fluoroquinolones, among others. Additionally, symptomatic treatment drugs such as antipyretics and cough suppressants can be used. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Mycoplasma pneumoniae is asymptomatic.

If Mycoplasma pneumoniae is diagnosed in the body, although there are no discomforts or symptoms, appropriate treatment and intervention should still be taken. If the disease lasts for a long time, it may induce other pathological changes, which are harmful stimulations to health. Treating asymptomatic Mycoplasma pneumonia mainly involves using antimicrobial drugs to control the infection, and etiological treatment is sufficient. Patients with mild symptoms can take medication orally, such as choosing one from azithromycin, roxithromycin, clarithromycin, or erythromycin. If conservative treatment is not effective, intravenous medication may be administered. (Specific medication use should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.)