What laboratory tests are needed for mycoplasma infection?
Dec 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, when Mycoplasma infection is suspected, commonly used clinical laboratory tests include Mycoplasma nucleic acid testing, Mycoplasma culture, serological antibody testing, complete blood count, and C-reactive protein testing. Each test has its own advantages, and clinicians typically select an appropriate combination of tests based on the patient's symptoms. During the testing period, it is important to maintain regular作息 (daily routines) and avoid excessive fatigue.
Generally, when Mycoplasma infection is suspected, commonly used clinical laboratory tests include Mycoplasma nucleic acid testing, Mycoplasma culture, serological antibody testing, complete blood count (CBC), and C-reactive protein (CRP) testing. Specific details are as follows:
1. Mycoplasma nucleic acid testing: This method confirms infection by detecting specific Mycoplasma nucleic acids in clinical samples, with throat swabs or sputum commonly used. It offers high sensitivity and specificity, enabling rapid and accurate identification of infection, making it one of the preferred diagnostic methods in clinical practice.
2. Mycoplasma culture: Respiratory secretions or other specimens are collected and cultured in vitro to observe for Mycoplasma growth. A positive culture result provides definitive diagnosis; however, the culture process is time-consuming, typically requiring 3–7 days, and is suitable for cases requiring precise identification of the pathogen type.
3. Serological antibody testing: This detects Mycoplasma-specific antibodies (including IgM and IgG) in the blood. A positive IgM antibody indicates recent infection, while a positive IgG antibody may reflect past infection or recovery phase status, helping to assess the stage of infection and disease progression.
4. Complete blood count (CBC): By analyzing changes in white blood cell count, lymphocyte levels, and other parameters, this test helps determine the type of infection. In Mycoplasma infections, white blood cell counts are usually normal or slightly elevated, and lymphocyte proportions may be abnormal, aiding differentiation from bacterial or viral infections.
5. C-reactive protein (CRP) testing: CRP is a sensitive marker of inflammation. It increases to varying degrees during Mycoplasma-induced inflammation. Combined with other test results, it helps evaluate the severity of inflammation and guide the development of treatment plans.
Different tests each have their advantages, and clinicians typically select an appropriate combination based on the patient's symptoms. During testing, maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), avoiding excessive fatigue, and cooperating with healthcare providers for proper sample collection contribute to obtaining accurate results.
