A Case Report on Mycobacterium abscessus: An Emerging Pathogen

Abstract

The incidence of infections by rapidly growing mycobacteria has increased in recent decades. nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) represent over 190 species and subspecies and can cause both pulmonary and extrapulmonary symptoms. The Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) is among the most drugresistant mycobacterial species, and prompt diagnosis and effective eradication are burdensome. We present the clinical course of a 55-year-old female who was diagnosed with M. abscessus and explore her clinical diagnosis and possible treatment options. This case report emphasizes the challenges clinicians face in the prompt diagnosis of M. abscessus and discusses the treatment options in light of the recent guidelines.

Iatrogenically Acquired Mycobacterium abscessus Infection in an Indwelling Intercostal Drainage In Situ in a Patient With Alcoholic Liver Disease and Bilateral Hepatic Hydrothorax: A Report of a Rare Case

“…Specifically, it is responsible for conferring resistance to macrolides in two of the three subspecies: M. abscessus and M. bolletti . However, M. massiliense subspecies tends to be macrolide-sensitive, leading to better treatment outcomes [ 13 ]. For individuals with Mycobacterium abscessus pulmonary disease, it is recommended to initiate a treatment plan based on susceptibility testing for macrolides and amikacin, rather than relying on empirical therapy [ 8 ].…”

Bilateral Jaw Mycobacterium Abscessus Mimicking Actinomycosis: A Postoperative Complication of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

“…There are over 150 species of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), the incidence of which has increased significantly in the last few decades [1]. One study conducted at the Mayo Clinic found that the incidence of cutaneous NTM infection was about three-fold higher from 2000-2009 compared to that of 1980-1999 in the suburban county encompassing this institution; these increased rates can be attributed to a growing population of immunosuppressed patients, as well as an increase in cosmetic procedures, such as tattoos, body piercings, and liposuction [2,3].…”

“…One study conducted at the Mayo Clinic found that the incidence of cutaneous NTM infection was about three-fold higher from 2000-2009 compared to that of 1980-1999 in the suburban county encompassing this institution; these increased rates can be attributed to a growing population of immunosuppressed patients, as well as an increase in cosmetic procedures, such as tattoos, body piercings, and liposuction [2,3]. In particular, Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus), a gram-positive and acid-fast staining bacterium, is one rapidly growing NTM responsible for high rates of treatment failure due to its antimicrobial resistance [1]. M. abscessus can be misdiagnosed as Actinomycoses israelii (A. israelii) in postodontogenic infections, especially given the latter pathogen's incidence following dental treatments.…”

Pulmonary Mycobacterium abscessus Infection: A Pathogen in Disguise

“…Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are free-living organisms that can infect both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts, causing pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) is one of over 190 species of NTM, categorized as a rapidly growing species and known for being among the most drug-resistant, making a timely diagnosis even more important and effective treatment challenging [1][2][3]. Out of the rapidly growing NTM, MABC is most associated with causing pulmonary infections and is particularly characteristic for infecting patients with underlying lung disease, including cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis; however, there has also been an increasing number of infections in patients without any underlying lung conditions [4][5][6].…”