Mycoplasma pneumoniae — The Cough That Won't Quit
That dry cough that's been hanging around for weeks? It might not be "just a cold." Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterium that causes everything from a mild sore throat to full-on atypical pneumonia. It especially loves school-age kids, teenagers, and young adults — and it spreads like rumours in a classroom. This PCR-based throat swab test is super accurate and picks up even tiny traces of the bacterium's DNA. Results typically land within 1-2 working days.
Why Test Mycoplasma pneumoniae Test?
If you've had a dry cough for over a week, a fever with no obvious explanation, or symptoms that scream atypical pneumonia, this test can name the culprit. Why that matters: Mycoplasma doesn't respond to regular penicillin, so knowing what you're dealing with helps your doctor prescribe the right antibiotic and get you feeling better faster.
What Do High Mycoplasma pneumoniae Test Levels Mean?
A positive result means Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA was found in your throat — you've got an active infection. Your doctor will likely prescribe specific antibiotics (macrolides or tetracyclines) to tackle it.
What Do Low Mycoplasma pneumoniae Test Levels Mean?
A negative result means the bacterium wasn't detected at the time of testing. An active Mycoplasma infection is unlikely. But if your symptoms have been dragging on for a while, the bacteria may have already cleared — or something else might be responsible.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Dry cough that lasts more than a week
- Sore throat
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and feeling generally unwell
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Headache
- Mild shortness of breath
Who Should Get Tested?
- Anyone with a persistent dry cough or fever lasting over a week
- People with symptoms suggesting atypical pneumonia
- Those who've been in close contact with a Mycoplasma case
- Kids, teenagers, and young adults with lingering respiratory symptoms
- Those wanting to confirm the cause before starting antibiotics
How to Prepare for Your Test
No special preparation needed. It's a simple throat swab done by a healthcare provider. Bring valid ID.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Mycoplasma pneumoniae Test levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the test done?
Is Mycoplasma pneumoniae contagious?
Can it be treated with antibiotics?
Reviewed by
Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
Learn more about our team →Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.