ỨNG DỤNG KỸ THUẬT REAL-TIME PCR TRONG CHẨN ĐOÁN MYCOPLASMA PNEUMONIAE TRÊN TRẺ EM TỪ 1-15 TUỔI MẮC VIÊM PHỔI

Abstract

Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae is an important cause of pneumonia in children, however, it is often difficult to identify using conventional microbiological diagnostic techniques. The application of real-time PCR enables rapid and accurate detection of the pathogen at an early stage, supporting physicians in selecting appropriate antibiotics and improving treatment effectiveness. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection using real-time PCR in children aged 1-15 years with pneumonia at Can Tho Children’s Hospital, and to investigate factors associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 75 children aged 1-15 years old diagnosed with pneumonia. Real-time PCR was performed on nasotracheal aspiration samples to detect MP. Results: The prevalence of MP infection among children age 1-15 years was 42.7%. It was more frequently observed in the ≥5 years old age group (53.5%), males (44.7%), those living in urban areas (42.9%), and those with malnutrition (50%). However, only the difference between age group (1-<5 years vs. ≥5 years) in MP was statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a noteworthy pathogen in pediatric pneumonia, particularly in children aged ≥5 years. Real-time PCR enables rapid and accurate identification of this microorganism.