[Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations]

Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is known to cause a mild disease of the upper respiratory tract and uncomplicated pneumonia in infected individuals. Serious pulmonary and extrapulmonary complications are reported with increasing frequency. In this paper pulmonary, neurological, haematological, dermatological, cardial, gastrointestinal and renal complications are reviewed. Since the diagnosis requires laboratory confirmation and indeed is often retrospective, knowledge of the less known pulmonary and systemic manifestations is important to make proper diagnostic decisions and to ensure proper medical treatment.