Clinical Features, Prognostic Indicators, and Treatment Outcomes of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Pneumonia with Associated Pleural Effusion in Pediatric Patients

Overview

This study analyzes the clinical characteristics and predictive factors of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children, particularly focusing on those with associated pleural effusion. Key findings indicate that age, CRP levels, and white blood cell counts are predictors of pleural effusion in this population.

Background

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a prevalent respiratory pathogen in children, often leading to community-acquired pneumonia. The occurrence of pleural effusion as a complication can impact patient outcomes and necessitates careful management. Understanding the predictors of pleural effusion in pediatric patients with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is important.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Age, CRP, WBC count, and IgM levels are correlated with pleural effusion in children with MP pneumonia.
• Children with pleural effusion had a longer hospital stay compared to those without.
• Autumn infections were associated with a lower incidence of pleural effusion.
• Neutrophil counts were significantly higher in the pleural effusion group.
• IgA levels were significantly lower in the pleural effusion group during autumn.

Clinical Implications

Recognizing the predictors of pleural effusion in children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia can aid in early identification and treatment.

Conclusion

The study highlights important clinical predictors of pleural effusion in pediatric Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 2026 -- Clinical Features and Risk Factors of Plastic Bronchitis in Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia Children with pulmonary consolidation: A Prospective Cohort Study
2. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 2026 -- Pediatric pleural empyema - decision making beyond imaging - a retrospective cohort study
3. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2021 -- A 5-Year Retrospective Analysis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia in Hospitalized Adults: Incidence, Patient Profiles, and Treatment Outcomes
4. Frontiers in Pediatrics — Case Report: Torque teno virus identified in pleural effusion of pediatric severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia: diagnostic and therapeutic implications
5. IDSA/PIDS Guidelines for Pediatric Community-Acquired Pneumonia
6. https://www.idsociety.org/globalassets/idsa/practice-guidelines/cap-2026/the-use-of-tpa-and-dnase-or-tpa-alone-for-fibrinolysis-manuscript.pdf
7. MMWR, Volume 74, Issue 23 — June 26, 2025