Clinical significanceClinical indicationsSample typePreparationNotes

Clinical significance
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a pathogen responsible for a range of clinical manifestations, from completely symptomless forms to severe interstitial pneumonia. During acute infection there is a rise in specific class M antibodies (IgM), followed by a rise in IgG, which persist for life.

Clinical indications
Interstitial pneumonia

Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.

Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed.

Notes

  • IgG absent, IgM absent: no exposure. If the clinical picture is uncertain, patients should be monitored over time.
  • IgG present, IgM absent: past infection.
  • IgG absent, IgM present: very early stage of infection.
  • IgG present, IgM present: acute infection