Can Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection be detected by routine blood tests?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is not usually detected directly by routine blood count (CBC). Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterium that primarily causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections and is often associated with respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and laryngitis. Although Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection may cause a range of symptoms, including cough, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, etc., it is usually not directly detected in the blood.

To diagnose Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, the following tests are usually needed:

1 Laryngopharyngeal swab or nasopharyngeal swab: Doctors usually take a laryngopharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab sample and then perform laboratory tests to detect the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

2 Sputum samples: In cases where symptoms are significant, sputum samples may be used to detect the presence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, especially if the patient has symptoms of a respiratory infection.

3 Serologic testing: Sometimes, infection is confirmed by testing the patient's serum for the presence of antibodies to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This method is usually used when there is a chronic infection or if the infection has been going on for a period of time.

The symptoms and clinical manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection have many overlaps with other respiratory infections and therefore require specific laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis. If you suspect you have Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, or if you are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory infection, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible so that appropriate testing and diagnosis can be made, and appropriate treatment can be obtained. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce symptoms and prevent complications.