Role of Genital Mycoplasmas in Bacteremia
Author Information
Author(s): Suzanne M. Garland, V. Nigel Kelly
Primary Institution: Royal Women's Hospital
Hypothesis
What is the role of genital mycoplasmas Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum as causes of bacteremia in obstetric and neonatal settings?
Conclusion
Genital mycoplasmas can contribute to sepsis in obstetric and gynecological settings, and it is important to examine blood cultures for these organisms.
Supporting Evidence
- Ureaplasma urealyticum represented 0.8% of positive isolates in infants and 9.6% in adults.
- Mycoplasma hominis represented 0.4% of positive isolates in infants and 9.9% in adults.
- Genital mycoplasmas are associated with increased bed stay and costs in postpartum care.
- These organisms are important to recognize for appropriate antimicrobial treatment.
Takeaway
Doctors should check for certain germs in the blood of pregnant women and babies because they can make them sick, even if they are not very common.
Methodology
The study reviewed blood cultures over a 12-year period to assess the positivity rates for genital mycoplasmas compared to conventional pathogens.
Limitations
The study was not population-based and focused only on patients screened for septicemia.
Participant Demographics
The study included adults and infants in a tertiary care obstetrical, gynecological, and neonatal setting.
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