M. pneumoniae IgG

Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgG

What's

M. pneumoniae IgG

Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgG (M. pneumoniae IgG) is a special protein created by your body's defense system in response to an infection caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria. This tiny germ is different from most bacteria because it doesn't have a protective outer layer, which makes it resistant to many usual antibiotics. It often causes a type of lung infection called "walking pneumonia," which is generally less severe than other kinds of pneumonia. The presence of M. pneumoniae IgG in your blood shows that your body has previously encountered this germ and has developed a way to fight it. This protein can stay in your system for months or even years after the infection has gone away, acting as a record of your immune system's past experiences.

If Your Levels Are High

Elevated levels of M. pneumoniae IgG in your blood might mean that your body has recently been dealing with an infection caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, which is often related to a milder form of pneumonia called "walking pneumonia." When your immune system fights off this bacteria, it produces more of this specific protein. It's also possible that the higher levels are due to a past infection, as M. pneumoniae IgG can stick around in your body for quite a while after the infection is gone. Sometimes, certain medications or other factors can also affect the amount of M. pneumoniae IgG in your blood.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of M. pneumoniae IgG may not be noticeable, as this antibody is a response to an infection and not a cause of illness itself. However, if the body is currently fighting an infection, symptoms could include mild respiratory issues like a persistent cough, fatigue, or a low-grade fever, which are typical signs of "walking" pneumonia.

If Your Levels are Low

Low levels of M. pneumoniae IgG might mean that your body hasn't come across the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria before, or it's been a while since you were last exposed and your immune system's memory has faded. This could also be a result of a weak immune system that isn't making antibodies properly. Some medications, like those that suppress the immune system, and factors such as poor nutrition or ongoing stress, could impact your body's ability to produce these antibodies. It's also possible that your body has reacted to the bacteria with different immune responses that this test doesn't measure.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of M. pneumoniae IgG are typically non-existent, as this simply indicates a lack of previous exposure to the bacteria or a faded immune memory. However, if you were to encounter the bacteria, you might be more susceptible to infection.

See References

Test for

Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgG

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae IgG/IgM

Access Med Labs

Serum

This test detects IgG and IgM antibodies to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It aids in the diagnosis of atypical pneumonia, a cause of community-acquired pneumonia.

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae IgG/IgM

Access Labcorp Draw

Serum

This test detects IgG and IgM antibodies to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It aids in the diagnosis of atypical pneumonia, which is a cause of community-acquired pneumonia.

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