# A Case of Acute Polyarthritis With a Suspected Association to Mycoplasma Infection Without Extrapulmonary Manifestations

## TL;DR

A 26-year-old woman developed acute joint pain linked to a Mycoplasma infection, highlighting how such infections can cause unusual symptoms like arthritis.

## Contribution

This case highlights a rare presentation of Mycoplasma infection as acute polyarthritis without typical respiratory or other extrapulmonary symptoms.

## Key findings

- The patient's polyarthritis improved after treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Mycoplasma infection was diagnosed based on community prevalence and symptom timing.
- The case suggests Mycoplasma can cause arthritis without typical extrapulmonary signs.

## Abstract

Mycoplasma pneumonia, an atypical pneumonia that commonly causes community-acquired pneumonia, can induce extrapulmonary manifestations at different sites, such as the central nervous system, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. These extrapulmonary manifestations can present without respiratory symptoms, making the diagnosis challenging. Herein, we report the case of a 26-year-old woman who presented with polyarthritis following fever and gastrointestinal symptoms. At the time of examination, mycoplasma pneumonia had spread in the community, which led to the diagnosis. Her polyarthritis improved one week after the administration of an antibiotic and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Understanding the prevalence of infectious diseases in the community can help in the diagnosis of uncommon presentations based on symptoms, such as the acute onset of polyarthritis, that may be caused by an infectious disease.