Mycoplasmas

General features No cell wall only cell memb Cell memb is triple layered containing cholesterol Cannot synthesize their own cholesterol Have both DNA & RNA so differ from virus smallest free-living organisms easily pass bacterial filters reproduction binary fission & budding usually nonmotile but some show gliding motility. Gram negative but better stained by GiemsaTheir lack of a cell wall is associated with cellular pleomorphism and resistance to cell wallactive antimicrobial agents, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. Mycoplasmas typically colonize mucosal surfaces of the respiratory and urogenital tracts of many animal species.

Mycoplasma pneumoniaeClinical Presentation Chest muscle soreness may result from frequent and prolonged coughing, but true pleuritic pain is uncommon.Pharyngeal injection is often noted. Cervical lymph node enlargement is unusual. Ear pain due to bullous myringitis (blisters on the tympanic membrane) is a unique but uncommon manifestation. As in other "atypical" pneumonias, findings on auscultation of the lung may be normal or nearly normal despite striking radiographic abnormalities. Pleural effusions develop in