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What Causes Mycoplasma?

Published in Mycoplasma Cause 2 mins read

Mycoplasma infections are typically caused by a specific type of bacteria.

Understanding Mycoplasma and Its Causes

When people refer to "Mycoplasma," they are often talking about an illness caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Mycoplasma. These tiny bacteria are unique because they lack a cell wall, unlike many other bacteria.

The Primary Bacterial Culprit

Based on the provided information: "Mycoplasma infection is an illness, usually respiratory, caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacteria."

This clearly states that Mycoplasma pneumoniae is the bacterium responsible for Mycoplasma infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. It is one of the most common causes of bacterial pneumonia, often referred to as "walking pneumonia" due to its milder symptoms compared to other forms of pneumonia.

The Mycoplasma Genus

While Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a well-known cause of respiratory disease, the Mycoplasma genus includes many other species. Some of these can cause infections in humans, although they affect different parts of the body:

  • Mycoplasma genitalium: A cause of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affecting the urethra and cervix.
  • Mycoplasma hominis: Can cause infections in the genital and urinary tracts.
  • Mycoplasma fermentans: Implicated in various conditions, though less commonly identified than others.

However, the cause of the common "Mycoplasma infection" referenced in the source material, especially respiratory ones, points specifically to Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

How Mycoplasma Spreads

Mycoplasma pneumoniae spreads relatively easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with someone who is infected is the primary mode of transmission. Infections can occur year-round but are more common in late summer and fall.

Common Mycoplasma Species and Associated Illnesses

Here is a simple overview focusing on key pathogenic species:

Mycoplasma Species Primary Illness Caused Mode of Transmission
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis) Respiratory droplets
Mycoplasma genitalium Urethritis, cervicitis (Sexually Transmitted Infection) Sexual contact
Mycoplasma hominis Genital and urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease Sexual contact, perinatal

In summary, while Mycoplasma is a genus containing various bacterial species, the most commonly referenced cause of Mycoplasma infection, particularly respiratory illness, is the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae.