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Atypical mycobacterial infection

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Atypical mycobacterial infection

Definition:

Atypical mycobacterial infection is an infection caused by a species of mycobacterium other than tuberculosis.

Alternative Names:
Mycobacteria other than tuberculosis; Nontuberculous atypical mycobacterial disease

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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Atypical mycobacteria can cause a wide variety of infections such as abscesses, septic arthritis and osteomyelitis (bone infection). They can also can infect the lungs, lymph nodes, gastrointestinal tract, skin and soft tissues.

There are many different species of mycobacterium other than tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). Some of the most common are listed below:

• M. avium-intracellulare
• M. marinum
• M. ulcerans
• M. kansasii

M. avium-intracellulare frequently affects AIDS patients, often causing fever, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), and diarrhea. M. avium intracellulare and M. kansasii cause lung disease.

M. marinum and M. ulcerans cause skin infections. M. marinum is also responsible for swimming pool granuloma.

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.

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