Key result
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can rarely present as pericardial effusion with tamponade in a previously healthy adolescent.
Why the study?
Mycoplasma pneumoniae rarely causes pericardial and pleural effusions in a previously healthy host, and pericardial effusion with tamponade is a rare presentation.
Case Report (n=1)
Mycoplasma pneumoniae should be considered in the differential diagnosis for pericarditis of unknown etiology, as it can rarely present with pericardial tamponade.
Consider Mycoplasma in unexplained pediatric tamponade; single case leaves diagnostic prevalence questions open.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is a common cause of community acquired pneumonia in school aged children but rarely causes pericardial and pleural effusions in a previously healthy host. We report an adolescent presenting with pericardial effusion with tamponade and pleural effusions most likely caused by MP infection. Definitive diagnosis of pericardial effusion is a challenge even when pericardial fluid or tissue is available. Serology is the mainstay of diagnosis. IgM is a reliable indicator of recent MP infection, but rising titers are needed which could delay diagnosis. Pericardial effusion with tamponade is a rare presentation of MP infection. As appropriate treatment significantly affects the outcome, investigating for MP should be part of the routine workup for pericarditis of unknown etiology.
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Rao et al. (2019) conducted a case report in Pericardial effusion with tamponade and pleural effusions (n=1). Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection was evaluated. Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can rarely present as pericardial effusion with tamponade in a previously healthy adolescent.
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