[Clinical assessment cannot predict if children are infected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae].

This meta-analysis was carried out to detect if clinical signs can predict infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children. The only significant finding was that absence of wheezing was associated with M. pneumoniae-infection. The analysis does not justify changes in the recommendation regarding treatment of pneumonia in children. Empiric therapy with macrolides can only be recommended if the patient does not tolerate betalactam.