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Ency. home > Disease > A > Atypical mycobacterial infection

Atypical mycobacterial infection    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Mycobacteria other than tuberculosis; Nontuberculous atypical mycobacterial disease

Definition:

Atypical mycobacterial infection is caused by a species of Mycobacterium (other than tuberculosis) that may be resistant to antituberculous drugs.

Causes and Risks

Atypical mycobacterial infection can cause infections such as abscesses, septic arthritis, and osteomyelitis (bone infection). It can infect the lungs, the lymph glands, or skin and soft tissues.

Several species of Mycobacterium cause different infections:

  • Mycobacterium avium intracellulare frequently affects AIDS patients.
  • Mycobacterium marinum and Mycobacterium ulcerans cause skin infections.
  • Mycobacterium marinum is also responsible for swimming pool granuloma.
  • Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare and Mycobacterium kansasii cause lung disease.

The incidence of atypical mycobacterial infections is rare, but it is increasing as the AIDS population grows. Populations at risk include individuals with pre-existing lung disease and immunocompromised (immunosuppressed) persons.

Ency. home > Disease > A > Atypical mycobacterial infection

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