Mycoplasma genitalium: what is it? How dangerous is the infection?

Mycoplasma is a fairly common representative of the prokaryotic group. And since this microorganism often leads to the development of certain inflammatory diseases, the questions of how dangerous Mycoplasma genitalium is, what it is and what its features are, are becoming more and more relevant. After all, such an infection is difficult to treat traditional antibiotic therapy.

Mycoplasma Genitalium : what is it?

As is known, mycoplasma is a parasitic microorganism that lives in the human sexual system. It is known that this bacterium has the simplest organization. And until 2002 it was believed that this prokaryote representative had the smallest genome size.

It is worth noting that these microorganisms are widespread almost everywhere. Transmission of the infection occurs most often during sexual intercourse. Nevertheless, the household way of transfer is also possible, which happens when sharing bed linen, towels, clothes and other items. It is also possible to infect the child's organism during pregnancy or childbirth.

People who change their sexual partners, as well as young girls, pregnant women and patients with inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system are considered to be at risk.

Mycoplasma Genitalium : what is it and how dangerous is it?

Despite the simple, even primitive structure, this bacterium can inflict serious harm on the human body. First, it should be noted that this microorganism parasitizes inside cells, which explains the ineffectiveness of antibiotic therapy with the help of broad-spectrum antibiotics. In addition, the membrane of mycoplasma contains antigens that are similar to human ones - this explains the absence of an immediate reaction from the immune system.

Mycoplasma genitalium in men affects the predominant urethra and the tissue of the foreskin. In women, it is introduced into the tissues of the vagina and cervix, as well as the urinary tract.

Mycoplasma Genitalium : what is it and what diseases does it lead to?

It has been proved that the prolonged activity of this microorganism leads to dangerous consequences, in particular, the development of endocervicitis, nonspecific urethritis, prostatitis, etc.

Nevertheless, scientists are still exploring the properties of this bacterium. Some doctors consider mycoplasma an aggressive pathogen, which leads to inflammation immediately after penetration into the reproductive system. Others, on the contrary, refer to the group of conditioned pathogens, which are dangerous only in combination with weakened immunity or the activity of other bacterial or viral organisms.

In any case, it is worth knowing that such an infection can affect the tissues of various organs of the genitourinary system, including seminal vesicles, epididymis, bladder and kidneys. Quite often, prolonged activity of mycoplasmas leads to the development of infertility.

Mycoplasma Genitalium : how to treat?

If you have found mycoplasma, then treatment in this case is simply necessary. As already mentioned, intracellular parasites are insensitive to most types of antibiotics. However, some macrolides are considered very effective in fighting this infection. Therefore, patients are usually prescribed azithromycin, and the dose is selected individually. Naturally, the stimulation of the immune system will also be beneficial in the condition of the body - for this purpose the patient is recommended to take vitamins and immunomodulators, as well as a proper diet and moderate physical activity. By the way, both (all) partners should undergo treatment, since the possibility of re-infection is not ruled out.