Mycoplasma are the small, free living bacteria that make up the normal flora of the oral cavity and genital tracts. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Mycoplasma genitalium and Mycoplasma hominis are the most common mycoplasm organisms and in immunosuppressed individuals, these species of mycoplasma can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, pneumonia and kidney infections. In addition to fluids and a protein rich diet, antibiotics are prescribed for the treatment of severe mycoplasma infections.
Antibiotics
Mycoplasma are the smallest, free living species of bacteria. Unlike other bacterial organisms, mycoplasma cells have no cell wall therefore they can take on many different shapes making them hard to isolate or identify under a microscope. Due to the difficulties encountered in isolating and culturing these bacterial organisms, broad-spectrum antibiotics such as erythromycin, clarithromycin and roxithromycin are commonly prescribed and are effective against suspected mycoplasm infections, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Side effects commonly associated with these antibiotic drugs include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Fluids
According to the "New York Times Health Guide," home care including the consumption or intake of large amounts of fluids as well as rest is recommended for the treatment of mycoplasma infections. An increased fluid intake is recommended because fluids help to flush out the bacterial organisms from the respiratory and genitourinary tracts. Depending on the severity of the infection, fluids may be taken orally or administered intravenously.
Protein-rich Diet
Certain mycoplasma species are able to suppress the immune system in an attempt to evade immune responses, notes the United Kingdom based Morgellons Research Foundation. Protein-rich diets improve the immune system and its ability to mount a proper immune attack. By increasing the protein level or sources in your diet, you will improve your immune system making it better able to mount an appropriate immune attack against mycoplasma infections.
