Latest news with #Mycoplasmapneumoniae
The Star
07-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Student gets severe infection from school badge prick
A 12-YEAR-OLD pupil almost lost a finger due to a severe infection after accidentally pricking herself with a Jalur Gemilang badge in her pocket, China Press reported. According to her mother, Jy Christy, the girl developed a fever, at the end of June, shortly after pricking her right ring finger. Initially, a doctor misdiagnosed her condition as a common cold. However, days later, the girl's finger and knee began to swell. A second doctor then suggested it might be an allergic reaction to medication. Christy sought a third opinion. The doctor warned her that her daughter had an infection and could lose her finger without immediate treatment. 'We thought it was just an allergy to the medicine she was given. But now, we were told she could lose her finger from a bacterial infection,' Christy said. The girl was rushed to hospital where she was diagnosed with Group A Streptococcus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae before receiving emergency surgery to drain pus from her finger. The above articles are compiled from the vernacular newspapers (Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese and Tamil dailies). As such, stories are grouped according to the respective language/medium. Where a paragraph begins with a, it denotes a separate news item
USA Today
25-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Yes, pneumonia can be contagious. But here's why it depends on the form.
Yes, pneumonia can be contagious. But here's why it depends on the form. Show Caption Hide Caption Medications can add to heat related illnesses Extreme heatwaves can trigger heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but health experts say some people on specific medications can be more prone to these types of risks. Fox - Seattle For the second half of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th, pneumonia was a leading cause of death that killed hundreds of thousands of people. Sir William Osler – usually considered the father of modern medicine – described pneumonia at the time as "the most fatal of all acute diseases" because it killed about one in four of the people it infected during the Civil War. Thanks to advancements in modern medicine, though, pneumonia in the U.S. is not as fatal as it once was. Still, some 41,000 people in the country die from the disease every year – and more than 1.4 million people still visit an emergency room because of it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here's what pneumonia is, what causes it and how the disease is usually treated once it has been diagnosed. What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that exists inside of the lungs, says Dr. Jillian Diuguid-Gerber, an internal medicine specialist at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull. She explains that it's what happens when the tiny air sacs inside of the lungs (called alveoli) fill with fluid or pus. This can lead to clogged airways or inflammation that can make it difficult to breathe. Telltale shortness of breath, rapid breathing or other breathing difficulties are the most worrisome symptoms of pneumonia, as they "can be a sign of low oxygen levels," says Diuguid-Gerber. But breathing difficulties are not the only symptom of the disease. Other symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, sweating "and fever and cough are especially common," says Dr. David Levine, pediatrician and the Chief of Ambulatory Pediatrics at the Atlantic Health System's Goryeb Children's Hospital in New Jersey. Symptoms of pneumonia can be concerning in anyone but are especially problematic in children as their lungs are still developing; they have smaller airways than adults. "Pneumonia can also be very worrisome in people with weakened immune systems and with existing lung problems," adds Diuguid-Gerber. Did you see? COPD can be debilitating. What exactly is it? What causes pneumonia? Pneumonia is caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, "but usually when people are thinking of pneumonia, they are thinking of the kind caused by bacteria," says Diuguid-Gerber. She explains that the most common bacteria to cause the disease is called Streptococcus pneumoniae, but other bacteria can also cause it. These include Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Beyond bacteria, "viruses are also common causes of pneumonia," says Diuguid-Gerber. These include any virus that can affect the respiratory system, including influenza (flu) viruses, the adenovirus (similar to the common cold), RSV, human metapneumovirus and the coronavirus (COVID-19). While bacteria and viruses are behind most pneumonia cases, Levine says that fungi can also cause pneumonia. Pneumocystis jirovecii and Histoplasma capsulatum are the types of fungi most commonly responsible. The cause of the disease also determines whether pneumonia is contagious or not. The viral forms of it that are most contagious are transmitted "through respiratory droplets being released into the air when a person coughs, sneezes or even talks," says Levine. Heads up: RSV is common and sometimes dangerous. Here's what to know. How is pneumonia treated? Regardless of what has caused the disease to develop, symptoms of pneumonia are often targeted through everyday remedies like getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated with plenty of fluids using a humidifier to soothe irritated airways and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to treat discomfort. Hospitalization may be needed in order to provide oxygen support or intravenous hydration. Treating the cause of the disease can often be done with nothing more than "at-home care," says Levine, "but some cases of the disease require antibiotics." Antibiotics only treat bacterial forms of pneumonia, however, and antiviral medications are used to treat viral forms for the disease, Diuguid-Gerber explains. Antifungal medications are usually needed to treat fungal pneumonia. The discomfort of pneumonia and associated treatment can often be altogether avoided through vaccination. "Getting the pneumonia vaccine, flu vaccine or COVID vaccine could all help prevent pneumonia," says Diuguid-Gerber. Indeed, pneumonia vaccines have been shown to be between 45% and 75% effective in preventing the disease, depending on what type of pneumonia you're dealing with. And even if you're among the people who get pneumonia despite having gotten the vaccine, Levine adds, "vaccines can prevent many of the worst outcomes of the disease."
Time Business News
29-04-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Understanding the Mycoplasma Test:
What It Is, Why It Is Important, and What to Anticipate In the rapidly evolving field of medical diagnostics, early and accurate infection detection is crucial to ensuring effective treatment and long-term health. The bacterial group Mycoplasma, which primarily affects the respiratory and urogenital tracts, is responsible for one such infection that is commonly disregarded. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the Mycoplasma test along with details on what it is, why it is important, who should take it, and how the test is conducted. Mycoplasma: What Is It? Mycoplasma is a group of unusual bacteria that do not have a cell wall. Because they don't have a cell wall, they can infect many parts of the body and are inherently resistant to many common drugs, such as penicillin. The species of Mycoplasma that most frequently infect humans are as follows Among other respiratory tract infections, walking pneumonia is caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Mycoplasma dentalium is a sexually transmitted bacterium that affects the vaginal and urinary systems. Mycoplasma hominis, which is frequently found in the urogenital tract, may be involved in reproductive issues. Although Ureaplasma species are not technically Mycoplasma, they are occasionally grouped together and assessed similarly. These bacteria are sometimes hard to identify because they can live inside the body without causing obvious symptoms. For this reason, testing is extremely important. What is a test for mycoplasma? One diagnostic method for identifying Mycoplasma microorganisms in the body is the Mycoplasma test. The test can target specific strains, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Mycoplasma dentalium, depending on whether the infection site is thought to be genital or respiratory. There are various Mycoplasma testing options available, depending on the infection site and the detection method The PCR test polymerase chain reaction polymerase chain reaction polymerase chain reaction is the most precise and frequently utilized method. looks for bacterial DNA in samples like vaginal swabs, urine, and throat swabs. Ideal for both respiratory and vaginal infections. The antibody test serology checks for antibodies that your body produces in reaction to an infection with Mycoplasma. used to identify illnesses, either current or past. Early on, it was less accurate. Cultural Tests Culture the bacteria in a laboratory setting. Low sensitivity reduces the use of time-consuming and infrequently used methods What Makes Mycoplasma Testing So Vital? Since many Mycoplasma infections are asymptomatic, people may not even be aware that they have the infection. However, if left untreated, they may result in more serious health issues, such as Sexually transmitted diseases, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, chronic respiratory infections, and premature birth in pregnant women Testing aids in Monitoring antibiotic resistance, reducing transmission to close friends or spouses, preventing complications, and early detection and treatment Who Needs a Mycoplasma Test? You may want a Mycoplasma test if you have symptoms or risk factors associated with the infection. The following outlines circumstances in which testing is recommended: A mild fever and sore throat, persistent coughing, chest pain or discomfort, fatigue, and difficulty breathing are all signs of a respiratory infection. Concerning urinary or genital infections Pelvic pain, unusual genital discharge, and discomfort during urination Infertility concerns, vaginal or urethral irritation, and a history of unprotected intercourse between multiple partners Immune system weakness, undergoing IVF or other fertility treatments, being pregnant or intending to become pregnant, and sexual health screening How Does the Test Get Done? Samples for genital Mycoplasma could include: Urine: Urine of the highest caliber is advised. Female cervical or vaginal swabs Urethral swabs for men Samples for respiratory Mycoplasma could include: – Swabs of the throat Sputum (if available) and a nasopharyngeal swab The sample is sent to a laboratory for antibody or PCR analysis. Specifically, in certain clinical settings, rapid molecular tests could yield results in less than an hour. Results are typically available in one to three business days. Mycoplasma DNA or antibody presence is confirmed by a positive result. Even though a negative result means no illness was discovered, additional testing might be suggested if symptoms persist Test Preparation Tips The majority of Mycoplasma tests don't require any special setup. Avoid urinating for at least an hour prior to providing a urine sample. Specifically, it is not recommended to use vaginal lotions or douches 24 hours prior to a swab test. Inform your doctor of any antibiotics you are currently taking, she advised. What Happens After a Positive Test? Your doctor will prescribe appropriate antibiotics if your test is positive; these are usually from the macrolide or tetracycline family (e.g., azithromycin or doxycycline). However, certain Mycoplasma dentalium strains have shown resistance to common antibiotics. Additionally, your doctor may recommend avoidance of sexual activity until treatment is complete, follow-up tests after therapy, symptom monitoring, and sexual partner testing. Can a Mycoplasma Home Test Kit Be Used? Of course. These days, a lot of reputable companies offer home testing kits for Mycoplasma, especially for STDs. These kits give you the capacity to Collect samples at home, mail them to a lab, and then discreetly access the results online. Accuracy, convenience, and privacy are ensured when home kits are handled properly. Always choose a trustworthy supplier with accredited labs The Mycoplasma test, which is necessary for diagnosis, ensures comfort, aids in infection control, and protects public health. Regardless of your symptoms or simply taking a proactive approach to your health, getting tested can help detect infections early and avoid issues. Mycoplasma testing has become easy thanks to modern diagnostics, whether you're in a clinic or the comfort of your own home. If you think you have a Mycoplasma infection or are in a high-risk group, consult a physician. You can also consider a reliable home testing kit. A basic test and awareness are the first steps to control your health TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Hindustan Times
22-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Pope Francis dies at 88: Know what is double pneumonia, the illness for which he was in the hospital for 5 weeks
Pope Francis died of a stroke, causing a coma and 'irreversible' heart failure, according to his death certificate released by the Vatican Monday. He had been battling double pneumonia since earlier this year and had been staying at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. Here's all you need to know about the life-threatening illness he battled with. Also Read | 'White smoke to 'infirmarii': Terms in focus after Pope Francis's death explained Pope Francis, the 88-year-old Catholic leader, died on Monday morning, almost a month after being discharged from five weeks in hospital with double pneumonia. In an interview with HT Lifestyle earlier this year in February, Dr Caroline Simon, consultant pulmonologist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai's Mira Road, explained, 'Double pneumonia is a life-threatening lung infection that takes a toll on both lungs, making it more dangerous than pneumonia, which affects only one lung." Dr Simon added that bacteria, viruses, or fungi can cause it. Additionally, it may raise the risk of complications if not treated at the right time. She further explained, "This condition is common in children (infants and toddlers) or older adults over 65. Those with lung damage due to infections, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and having a history of smoking are also prone to this condition. It is the need of the hour to seek timely intervention to save the patient's life.' According to the doctor, double pneumonia is caused by certain bacterial infections like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Legionella pneumophila. Viruses like Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and even COVID-19 can also cause it. Those with fungal infections and weakened immune systems may develop pneumonia due to fungi like Pneumocystis jirovecii. Conditions like diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease increase one's chances of developing double pneumonia. Cough with mucus (yellow, green, or blood-streaked). High fever, chills, and sweating. Shortness of breath and rapid breathing. Chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing. Fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, and confusion (mainly in older adults). Per Dr Simon, the treatment of double pneumonia is decided after a diagnosis through an X-ray, sputum test or swab. To treat this condition, the patient will be advised to take antibiotics and antiviral medications, and severe cases may require oxygen therapy or hospitalisation. 'The supportive care will be in the form of rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medications. Some patients may also need pulmonary rehabilitation as recommended by the expert,' she added. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
