Mycoplasma Species and Human Infection

Mycoplasma Species and Human Infection

• Mycoplasmas, often commensal, are transmitted via direct sexual contact, tissue transplants, mother-to-fetus, or respiratory secretions (in the case of M. pneumoniae).
• Some mycoplasmas, like Acholeplasma laidlawii, have been found in the human oral cavity, but their significance remains uncertain.

Uncertain Roles of Mycoplasma Species

• The roles of Mycoplasma pirum, Mycoplasma amphoriforme, Mycoplasma fermentans, and Mycoplasma penetrans in human disease are uncertain.
• These species have been isolated from HIV-infected patients, but no clear link between their presence and HIV acquisition/shedding has been established.
• Notably, M. genitalium has a clearly established association with HIV transmission and acquisition.
• M. fermentans has been isolated from various sites (bronchoalveolar lavage, bone marrow, peripheral blood, throat of pneumonia patients). It's linked with infections in children and immunocompromised individuals.
• M. amphoriforme has been found in the lower respiratory tracts of patients with chronic respiratory disease and antibody deficiencies, and isolated from healthy asymptomatic carriers. Seronegative infections were previously mistaken for M. pneumoniae. Further research is needed.

Established Roles of Mycoplasma Species

• M. pneumoniae, M. genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum, and Mycoplasma hominis have well-documented roles in human infections.

Specific Site and Role of Species

• M. genitalium, U. urealyticum, U. parvum, and M. hominis are associated with the genitourinary tract.
• M. pneumoniae is primarily associated with the respiratory tract, causing approximately 15-20% of nongonococcal urethritis (NGU).
• Mycoplasma infections in immunocompromised patients are linked with genital or respiratory tract colonization, often associated with medical procedures (e.g., transplants) or trauma.

Explore the diverse roles of various Mycoplasma species in human infection. This quiz covers their transmission pathways, associations with diseases such as HIV, and the ongoing research regarding their significance in human health. Test your knowledge about these intriguing microorganisms.