Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and respiratory failure in children

Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is one of the most common causes of community-acquired pneumonia in children.The incidence of respiratory failure due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is relatively rare despite the high prevalence of MP infection.Prevalence of respiratory failure was unsure in children, most of them presented with hypoxia or acute respiratory distress syndrome.Key clinical findings include cough, fever, and dyspnea along with diffuse abnormal findings in radiological examinations.Levels of inflammatory markers such as white blood cells and C-reactive protein are elevated.The exact pathogenesis of fulminant MPP remains unclear, radiological images usually showed bilateral infiltrates and pleural effusion commonly present in MPP cases with respiratory failure.Treatment options involve pairing the appropriate anti-mycoplasma agent with a corticosteroid which aimed at decreasing the hypersensitivity response, further research is necessary to determine the exact pathogenesis of MPP with respiratory failure.Now, the most recent data in epidemiology, research situation, pathogenesis, clinical and X-ray presentation, and treatment of respiratory failure with MPP are described. Key words: Mycoplasma pneumoniae; Pneumonia; Child; Respiratory failure; Acute respiratory distress syndrome; Treatment