Clinical Analysis of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae in Children: A Case Series

Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia in children, often presenting with varied clinical manifestations ranging from mild respiratory symptoms to severe pneumonia and extrapulmonary complications. Diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae is often challenging and controversial, due to limited understanding of its clinical presentation. We included four cases of M pneumoniae from a period of September 2024 to November 2024, all of which were confirmed by a respiratory panel. Clinical manifestations include fever, persistent cough and with normal white blood cells, elevated CRP. Cold agglutination test was positive. Radiologic findings also account for pneumonia features. In all cases treatment response is obtained with macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Mycoplasma infections are mostly asymptomatic, but can lead to more serious complications. This condition is also underdiagnosed due to its nonavailability of rapid and easy diagnostic methods. This case series emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment can reduce complications, hospitalizations and improve patient outcomes. There's no vaccine to prevent this infection. Healthcare providers generally don't prescribe antibiotics after exposure to help prevent someone from getting an M. pneumoniae infection. However, there are steps people can take to help protect themselves, M. pneumoniae and other respiratory pathogens can be stopped from spreading by covering coughs and sneezes and washing your hands.