AUTHOR=Guo Zai-qiang , Gu Shun-yi , Tian Zhi-hua , Du Bo-ying 

TITLE=A comprehensive review of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in chronic lung diseases: recent advances in understanding asthma, COPD, and bronchiectasis

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Medicine

VOLUME=11

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1437731

DOI=10.3389/fmed.2024.1437731

ISSN=2296-858X

ABSTRACT=<p>This review summarizes the research progress over the past 30 years on the relationship between <italic>Mycoplasma pneumoniae</italic> infection and chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis. <italic>Mycoplasma pneumoniae</italic> is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia, particularly in children and young adults. Key findings from recent studies indicate that <italic>M. pneumoniae</italic> infection is associated with a higher risk of asthma exacerbations and may contribute to the development of bronchiectasis in susceptible individuals. Additionally, emerging evidence suggests that <italic>M. pneumoniae</italic>-induced immune dysregulation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of chronic lung diseases. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the potential links between <italic>M. pneumoniae</italic> pneumonia and various chronic respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis. We discuss the epidemiological data, pathogenic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and long-term consequences of <italic>M. pneumoniae</italic>-related respiratory illnesses. Additionally, we highlight the challenges in diagnosis and treatment, as well as future research directions in this field.</p>