Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Mycoplasma pneumonia is a type of bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory tract, leading to atypical pneumonia. It is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which lacks a cell wall.
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Mycoplasma pneumoniae is resistant to antibiotics that target cell walls, such as beta-lactams.
It is often referred to as 'walking pneumonia' because symptoms can be mild enough that people do not feel the need for bed rest.
Diagnosis can involve serological tests like agglutination assays to detect specific antibodies against M. pneumoniae.
Common symptoms include a dry cough, sore throat, fever, and fatigue.
The infection spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
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Related terms
Agglutination Assays: Tests used to detect the presence of antibodies or antigens in a sample by observing clumping reactions.
Bacterial Infections of the Respiratory Tract: Diseases caused by bacteria affecting any part of the respiratory system.
Atypical Pneumonia: A form of pneumonia caused by certain bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, characterized by milder symptoms compared to typical pneumonias.