Weighing Potential Benefits and Harms of Mycoplasma genitalium Testing and Treatment Approaches

Abstract

Since Mycoplasma genitalium was identified 40 years ago, much of the epidemiology has been described, diagnostic tests have been developed and approved, and recommended treatment approaches have been identified. However, the natural history remains incompletely understood, and antimicrobial resistance has rapidly increased. This review summarizes evidence published since the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2015 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines. Data on sequelae remain insufficient, macrolide resistance is common, and fluoroquinolone resistance is increasing. Potential benefits of testing and treatment include resolving symptoms, interrupting transmission, and preventing sequelae. Potential harms include cost, patient anxiety, and increasing antimicrobial resistance.

Keywords

• Mycoplasma genitalium
• bacterial drug resistance
• natural history
• bacteria
• sexually transmitted infections
• antimicrobial resistance