Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the smallest free-living organisms. In addition to Chlamydia and Legionella, M. pneumoniae is one of the primary causes of community-acquired pneumonia.
The serological detection of pathogen-specific antibodies by ELISA is a commonly used method for diagnosing M. pneumoniae infections. Antibodies against M. pneumoniae adhesins are particularly useful because of their high sensitivity and specificity. Adhesins are special surface molecules that help the bacteria stick to the mucosa of the respiratory tract.