How is Mycoplasma pneumonia diagnosed?
Jan 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, mycoplasma pneumonia can be detected through methods such as complete blood count, throat swab or sputum culture, nucleic acid testing, chest X-ray examination, and chest CT scan. If symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia appear, such as coughing, fever, and fatigue, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and undergo appropriate tests to confirm the diagnosis and receive targeted treatment.
Generally, mycoplasma pneumonia can be detected through methods such as routine blood tests, throat swabs or sputum culture, nucleic acid testing, chest X-ray examinations, and chest CT scans. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Routine Blood Test: A routine blood test is a basic examination of the blood. In cases of mycoplasma pneumonia, the test may show a normal or slightly elevated total white blood cell count, predominantly neutrophils, although changes are typically not very pronounced.
2. Throat Swab or Sputum Culture: By collecting a throat swab or sputum sample from the patient and culturing for mycoplasma, the pathogen can be directly detected. However, mycoplasma culture requires specific growth media and a relatively long culture period.
3. Nucleic Acid Testing: Nucleic acid testing is a rapid and sensitive detection method. It can detect Mycoplasma pneumoniae nucleic acids in respiratory specimens from patients. A positive test result indicates the presence of genetic material from Mycoplasma pneumoniae in the patient's body, enabling rapid diagnosis of mycoplasma pneumonia at an early stage of the disease.
4. Chest X-ray Examination: A chest X-ray can provide an initial assessment of lung lesions. In the early stages of mycoplasma pneumonia, chest X-rays may show increased and thickened lung markings. As the disease progresses, patchy shadows may appear in the lungs, typically affecting the unilateral lower lobe, though bilateral involvement can also occur.
5. Chest CT Scan: A chest CT scan can more clearly reveal subtle lung structures and abnormalities. In mycoplasma pneumonia, CT images may show various changes such as centrilobular nodules and a "tree-in-bud" pattern. CT scans are generally considered when chest X-ray findings are inconclusive or further evaluation of the condition is required.
If symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia such as coughing, fever, and fatigue occur, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital for appropriate examinations to confirm the diagnosis and receive targeted treatment.
