Prevalence of Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM and IgG antibodies in Tunisian patients presenting with exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae acute infections, using serological testing, in patients admitted to the emergency department for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods: We performed a prospective observational study of 100 consecutive patients. Serum specimens were collected at day 0 and day 15. C. pneumoniae and M. pneumoniae antibodies (IgM and IgG) were tested by commercial ELISA and immunofluorescence assay, respectively.

Results: We did not observe any acute M. pneumoniae infection; however, 11 patients (11%) showed a profile compatible with a recent C. pneumoniae infection (nine patients with specific IgM and two with an IgG antibody rise). Demographic and clinical parameters did not differ between patients with and without biological profile of recent C. pneumoniae infection.

Conclusion: C. pneumoniae is a pathogen that requires specific antimicrobial treatment. Its detection must always be performed considering its prevalence in patients presenting with acute COPD exacerbations.