Mycoplasma Pneumoniae IgM antibodies

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae IgM antibodies – this is a laboratory blood test used to determine whether the body has encountered the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which causes respiratory tract infections. This bacterium spreads through airborne droplets and infects the mucous membranes of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. It can cause pharyngitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, or even atypical pneumonia.

One of the most characteristic symptoms is a dry, persistent cough that often lasts for several weeks. Not everyone with mycoplasma in their nasopharynx gets sick – it depends on individual immunity. However, individuals without symptoms can transmit the infection to others.

IgM class antibodies usually begin to form in the body 1–2 weeks after infection, and their titer can remain for several months or even years. In the case of reinfection, the IgM response may be reduced or absent, so IgG tests or PCR tests may also be performed, especially if symptoms persist.

Test principle: Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM antibodies are determined by an immunochemical method from venous blood. The results help diagnose acute or recently started infections.

Recommendations:

• Recommended for dry, persistent cough, especially when there are no clear signs of bacterial infection.
• Useful in suspected atypical pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or sinusitis.
• Prescribed for children and adults with non-specific symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
• Performed together with IgG or PCR tests to accurately determine the stage of infection.
• No specific preparation is needed for the test.