Non‐tuberculous mycobacterial skin infections

Abstract

General descriptionThe mycobacteria are a large genus which includes important pathogens of man and other vertebrates, apparently harmless commensals, and free-living saprophytes. The relative importance of non-tuberculous mycobacterial diseases has been undergoing evolution during the past few years and further changes and modifications are expected to occur in the near future. In this paper we review the microbiological, clinical, histological and therapeutical aspects of the most important human pathogens of non-tuberculous mycobacteria.Learning objective At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be able to describe the pathogenesis, the microbiological, clinical and histological features of non-tuberculous mycobacterial skin infections and should be able to diagnose and treat these skin diseases. © 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.

Cutaneous Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections in Alberta, Canada: An Epidemiologic Study and Review

“…Therefore, microscopy of mycobacteria is considered a test with low sensitivity. 4,5,15,20,25,32,33 Despite this lack of sensitivity, as well as specificity (ie, bacterial speciation cannot be done by microscopy), detection of AFBs is highly specific for the presence of mycobacteria. In addition, special staining has a rapid turnaround time compared to culture results, hence it is helpful in directing early therapy.…”