Mycoplasma infection test checks for what?

Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
Updated on May 07, 2025
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Mycoplasma infection is relatively common in clinical practice. If symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, and cough arise, and mycoplasma infection is suspected, certain tests can be conducted. On one hand, mycoplasma antibody and antigen tests can be done to check for mycoplasma infection. Additionally, lung imaging can be performed to see if pneumonia, including mycoplasma pneumonia, has developed. If the diagnosis is clear, macrolides or quinolones can be chosen for treatment. Usually, recovery can be achieved within two to three weeks.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Symptoms of Mycoplasma Infection in Children

The symptoms of mycoplasma infection in children primarily include respiratory infections, with common symptoms being cough and fever. Additionally, mycoplasma can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. Generally, mycoplasma can lead to pharyngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. In cases of pneumonia caused by mycoplasma, it can affect the bronchial mucosa and the pulmonary interstitial. It can also cause pulmonary consolidation. The main treatment for mycoplasma pneumonia is the use of macrolide antibiotics to treat the infection, followed by symptomatic treatment, expectorants, and cough suppressants.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Mycoplasma infection cold symptoms

Mycoplasma infection can also cause cold symptoms, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, headache, fever, muscle pain, coughing up phlegm, and difficulty breathing. Mycoplasma infections tend to have a long course, which can lead to persistent coughing that is difficult to resolve and requires examination. If it is confirmed that there is a mycoplasma pathogen in the body, it can be treated with macrolide antibiotics administered orally or intravenously to reduce inflammation. After a course of treatment, re-examination is necessary. Drinking more water and resting more are essential for recovery. Additionally, smoking and alcohol should be avoided.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How is mycoplasma infection treated?

Mycoplasma infection is clinically treated by using antibacterial drugs orally or intravenously to eradicate the mycoplasma. The most commonly used drugs are macrolide antibiotics, such as erythromycin, roxithromycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin. Usually, choosing one of these is sufficient. Additionally, treatment should be based on the location of the infection and the specific symptoms of the patient. If the infection affects the respiratory system and causes symptoms like coughing and expectoration, medications to thin the mucus should be selected. Also, treatments to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms should be administered.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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How is mycoplasma infection treated?

After Mycoplasma infects the human body, it often causes mycoplasma pneumonia, with symptoms such as fever and cough. Most cases of mycoplasma pneumonia infection are self-limiting, meaning many patients can recover without medication. If medication is used, macrolides or fluoroquinolones are typically chosen, with a treatment duration of about two to three weeks. Additionally, symptomatic treatment drugs can be used, such as antipyretic analgesics for fever and cough suppressants for cough.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Does a mycoplasma infection cause a contagious cough?

Cough symptoms caused by mycoplasma infection are indeed contagious. They can be transmitted through breathing, coughing, and sneezing as these actions release mycoplasma pathogens into the air. These pathogens can then spread to others via airborne droplets. Therefore, it is recommended to isolate the affected individual, wear masks for protection, and, upon diagnosis, promptly choose to administer macrolide antibiotics orally or intravenously to eliminate the mycoplasma pathogens. Additionally, cough suppressants should be used according to the nature of the cough for symptomatic treatment. It is also advised to drink plenty of water, rest adequately, measure body temperature twice daily, avoid spicy and overly greasy foods, and ensure sufficient quality sleep. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor, according to the specific situation.)