Mycoplasma Pneumonia in Children and Adolescents

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia in children and adolescents and needs to be recognized by physicians. Findings associated with M pneumoniae infection are nonspecific and difficult to distinguish from other causes of respiratory tract infections. Chest radiography is nonspecific and findings are variable. (4)(5)(6)(7) No firm recommendation exists at this time, but testing for children with suspected M pneumoniae pneumonia should be reserved for those who are hospitalized or in whom testing will alter management. (2)(16) Based on evidence, choice of test depends on the location of the patient (inpatient versus outpatient), availability, and cost. The currently recommended method of diagnosis is by polymerase chain reaction testing, but based on cost and availability, this should be reserved for inpatients. (2)(16) Treatment of M pneumoniae is best accomplished with azithromycin in children whose clinical picture is consistent with atypical pneumonia, but other regimens are available. © 2020 American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.