Relationship Between Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Serological Findings and Clinical Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and purpose: Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which causes respiratory tract infections, has been associated with COVID-19 co-infections. This study aimed to investigate serum M. pneumoniae IgM and IgG levels in COVID-19 patients, assessing their connections with disease outcomes, including disease severity and mortality. Materials and methods: For this cross-sectional investigation, 70 COVID-19 patients hospitalized at Afzalipour Hospital in Kerman, Iran, during the first wave of the pandemic were chosen. Serum IgM and IgG levels for M. pneumonia were clinically tested, and demographic and clinical data were gathered using a review of medical records. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: The research found a low incidence of M. pneumoniae IgM, while a considerable number of patients had positive IgG. Serum IgM levels differed depending on demographic and clinical characteristics, with younger patients and those without comorbidities having higher levels. Co-infected individuals experienced more frequent symptoms, such as anorexia, myalgia, and a productive cough. Patients who recovered had significantly higher levels of IgG than those who did not survive. Co-infection or past exposure to M. pneumoniae may impact COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Elevated blood IgM levels were associated with particular symptoms, whereas higher IgG levels were linked to better outcomes. Conclusion: Previous or co-infection with M. pneumoniae can affect the symptoms and outcomes of COVID-19. Therefore, diagnosing co-infections with this bacterium can significantly improve the management and recovery of these patients.