Which organism is responsible for causing primary atypical pneumonia?

Primary atypical pneumonia, often referred to as "walking pneumonia," is primarily caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This organism is a type of bacterium that lacks a cell wall, which distinguishes it from many other bacteria that are typically responsible for pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is known for causing milder respiratory symptoms compared to typical bacterial pneumonia, which is often associated with more severe symptoms and is frequently caused by organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae primarily affects young adults and children and is transmitted through respiratory droplets. The infection is characterized by a prolonged cough, low-grade fever, and fatigue, but can vary in severity in different individuals. Understanding this organism's unique features and the nature of the pneumonia it causes can help clinicians differentiate it from other types of pneumonia caused by organisms with different pathogenic mechanisms.