mycoplasma pneumonia

Last reviewed 01/2018

Mycoplasma pneumonia is implicated in about 6% of pneumonias in the UK (1).

Infection occurs in 3 to 4 year cycles in temperate climates and chiefly affects children and young adults, causing an atypical pneumonia characterised by an influenza-like respiratory illness of gradual onset with headache, malaise, fever and cough (2).

Physical findings may be insignificant relative to the radiologic appearance of the pneumonia; some individuals are asymptomatic. Close indoor contact facilitates spread.

Reference:

• Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (1998), 36 (9), 65-72.
• Harold SR et al (1994). Management of community acquired lower respiratory tract infection. BMJ, 308, 701-5.