Mycoplasma genitalium[edit | edit source]

Mycoplasma genitalium under a microscope

Mycoplasma genitalium is a small bacterium that is known to cause several sexually transmitted infections in humans. It is one of the smallest self-replicating bacteria identified and has a very limited genome.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Mycoplasma genitalium was first isolated in 1981. It is a pathogen that primarily infects the urogenital tract, leading to conditions like urethritis in men and cervicitis in women. It can also be associated with pelvic inflammatory disease.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

This bacterium is characterized by its:

Small size and lack of a cell wall
Slow growth rate in laboratory cultures
Ability to attach to epithelial cells in the urogenital tract

Transmission and Infection[edit | edit source]

Transmission of Mycoplasma genitalium is primarily through sexual contact. Infections can be symptomatic or asymptomatic, and chronic infections can lead to complications like infertility.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Mycoplasma genitalium infection involves:

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing to detect bacterial DNA in urine samples or genital swabs
Molecular techniques for the determination of bacterial load in clinical samples

Treatment and Resistance[edit | edit source]

The treatment of Mycoplasma genitalium infections includes:

Antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline
Emerging antibiotic resistance has become a significant concern, necessitating careful antibiotic selection

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

While less common than other sexually transmitted infections, Mycoplasma genitalium is increasingly recognized as a cause of urogenital tract infections worldwide.

Public Health Implications[edit | edit source]

Due to its association with significant reproductive complications and emerging antibiotic resistance, Mycoplasma genitalium poses a public health challenge in managing sexually transmitted infections.

References[edit | edit source]

Resources[edit source]

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Mycoplasma genitalium for any updates.

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