Q: Does a negative test mean it's definitely not Mycoplasma pneumonia if the fever continues during hospitalization?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question: My child is currently hospitalized for suspected pneumonia. However, the respiratory tests only showed regular pneumonia bacteria, and Mycoplasma was negative. The doctor evaluated the condition and mentioned it seems like a more serious bacterial infection. If Mycoplasma didn't show up in either the respiratory or blood tests, does that definitively mean it is not Mycoplasma? The fever is not subsiding at all despite hospitalization, so I am very concerned and would like to know.

Answer: It is completely understandable that you are very worried, especially since the fever continues despite inpatient treatment and the medical team suspects a more serious bacterial infection.

Regarding your question about the Mycoplasma test results:

Test Result Interpretation:

* If both the respiratory specimen and blood tests are negative, the likelihood of a Mycoplasma infection is generally low.

* However, it is difficult to rule it out 100%, as the bacteria might not be detected in the very early stages of the infection.

* Medical professionals sometimes make a clinical diagnosis based primarily on the patient's presentation and symptoms, even if tests are negative.

Causes of Persistent Fever During Hospitalization:

There are several other potential causes for a prolonged fever during pneumonia treatment, including:

* General bacterial pneumonia (the pneumonia bacteria that have already been confirmed from the test).

* Viral co-infection (having a viral and bacterial infection at the same time).

* Antibiotic-resistant bacteria that may require a different medication.

* Pulmonary complications, such as pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining) or an abscess.

Actionable Guidance:

Since your child is currently admitted, the medical staff will be monitoring the situation very closely. We highly recommend discussing the following specifics with your attending physician during their next rounds:

1. Ask what specific "more serious bacteria" they are suspecting.

2. Inquire if there are plans for additional testing.

3. Ask if they are considering a change in the antibiotic regimen.

In the meantime, keep a personal log of the child's fever patterns, breathing status, and overall energy levels. Please notify the nurses or doctors immediately if you notice any sudden changes or worsening in your child's condition.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us