Walking Pneumonia - Not Always so Timid. A Case of Severe ARDS Due to Fulminant Mycoplasma Pneumonia.

Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) most commonly presents as bronchitis or as a self-limited 'walking' community acquired pneumonia. A fulminant form of MPP may occur in 0.5 %-2 % of patients and is characterized by rapidly progressive respiratory failure and Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Our case highlights the importance of considering fulminant MPP as a cause of ARDS, especially in the young adult and middle-aged population. We review the current literature and management principles of this rare disease with an emphasis on antibiotic stewardship and corticosteroid therapy. Further research is needed to better understand patterns of antibiotic resistance and to establish management guidelines for fulminant MPP.