Disseminated Mycobacterium Xenopi in a Patient With Silicosis

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Nontuberculous Mycobacterium species (NTM) are a group of pulmonary pathogens with an alarming increase in global incidence. Their indolent nature along with their susceptibility towards antibiotic resistance makes them difficult to eradicate. Mycobacterium Xenopi is an NTM commonly found in Canada and Europe. Described as a lung specific pathogen, it usually leads to nodular and cavitary infiltrates. With rising NTM infections there are increasing reports of M. Xenopi isolated in patients with chronic lung disease in the United States. We present a rare case of disseminated M. Xenopi.