Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a Cause of Severe Bronchiolitis-Like Syndrome Among Children Under Two Years of Age
Year: 2015
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background. Mycoplasma pneumoniae (Mp) is a common cause of pneumonia among school-aged children and is increasingly being recognized as a pathogen among younger children. Current literature includes conflicting descriptions of the severity of Mp disease at young ages. Multiplex PCR testing of respiratory samples facilitates identification of Mp even among children initially suspected to have viral illness. Patient Characteristics Clinical Signs and Symptoms 78% of patients had respiratory viral co-infections detected on multiplex PCR testing, of which rhino/enterovirus was the most common (22/35, 63%). Of the 87% of patients who had a chest x-ray, 46% had airways disease, 46% consolidation, 5% atelectasis, and 3% no abnormality. Most patients (84%) received azithromycin and 58% received additional antibiotics for other clinical indications. 44% received albuterol and 24% received steroids. There were no deaths. Methods. Retrospective review of children under age 2 presenting with acute illness to a pediatric hospital who were found to be Mp-positive by multiplex PCR of nasopharyngeal sample from August 2013 to May 2015. Data collected included patient demographics, presenting symptoms, medical history, medications and respiratory support, length of stay (LOS), and results of laboratory and radiologic testing. Results. During the study period, 45 Mp-positive children were identified. Demographic and clinical characteristics (table 1), presenting signs and symptoms (table 2) and maximum respiratory support and ICU requirement (figure) are shown below. The majority of subjects presented with respiratory distress, and 58% required ICU admission for respiratory support. Conclusion. Mycoplasma pneumoniae may represent a treatable cause of potentially severe bronchiolitis-like syndrome among infants and toddlers. Disclosures. C. C. Robinson, Biofire: Scientific Advisor, Consulting fee
Source: Open Forum Infectious Diseases
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,053
OpenAlex ID: W2340859922