Current approaches of the treatment of nontuberculous mycobacteriosis

Abstract

The term nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) includes different species of mycobacteria, other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (M. bovis, M. africanum, M. microti, M. canetti, M. caprae, M. pinnipedii, M. suricatta, M. mungi) and other than those that cause leprosy (M. leprae, M. lepromatosis). The rate of lung infection with NTM increases with age and varies considerably in different countries. NTM are opportunistic pathogens that can cause the disease, especially in immunocompromised patients or in those with preexisting lung disease. The decision to initiate the treatment is based on an assessment of the potential risks and benefits, individually for each patient. The aim of the treatment is to liquidate/ improve the clinical and functional manifestations, to reduce the lung lesions and to restore work capacity. The treatment of patients with mycobacteriosis is a complex one (polychemotherapy, if necessary — surgical treatment etc.), long-term, under direct observation, administered in the hospital and/or at home. The treatment regimen is chosen depending on the species involved, radiological picture, comorbidities, drug sensitivity etc.