Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections and Asthma Exacerbations
Author Information
Author(s): Hanhan Usama, Orlowski James, Fiallos Mariano
Primary Institution: University Community Hospital
Hypothesis
What is the incidence of recent mycoplasma infections in patients with status asthmaticus?
Conclusion
Recent mycoplasma infections significantly contribute to asthma exacerbations and status asthmaticus in children.
Supporting Evidence
- 42% of patients with status asthmaticus tested positive for mycoplasma.
- Patients with mycoplasma infections were more likely to have infiltrates on chest X-rays.
- No significant differences in hospitalization metrics between mycoplasma positive and negative patients.
Takeaway
This study found that many kids with severe asthma attacks also had a type of infection called mycoplasma, which can make their asthma worse.
Methodology
Retrospective review of patients admitted to PICU with status asthmaticus over a 12-month period, testing for mycoplasma IgM.
Limitations
The study was retrospective and did not examine other infectious agents associated with status asthmaticus.
Participant Demographics
Patients were less than 20 years old, with a mean age of 9.4 years for mycoplasma positive patients.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p=0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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