Recurrence of cutaneous Mycobacterium chelonae infection: A case report

Abstract

Mycobacterium chelonae is a species of mycobacteria that can be found ubiquitously in the environment. It can be found in soil, water, and in aquatic animals. Infections with this pathogen usually involve the soft tissues, eyes, bones, and skin. We present the case of a recurrence of a sporotrichoid cutaneous infection by M. chelonae in an immunocompromised 31-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus. The patient originally developed a swelling of her right foot followed by a sporotrichoid pattern of infection on her right lower leg. A susceptibility profile was established, and treatment with linezolid and clarithromycin was administered for 8 months, in accordance with guidelines from the American Thoracic Society. The patient was clear of new lesions for approximately 1 month before noting a re-emergence. Treatment with linezolid and clarithromycin was re-initiated with subsequent improvement. This case underlines the need for prolonged treatment of this infection in patients with an immunocompromised status.

Disseminated Cutaneous Mycobacterium Fortuitum-Chelonae Complex Infection in a Young, Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report

“…Disseminated and severe lesions commonly occur in those who are immunocompromised or immunosuppressed. 8,9 The vast range of symptoms imposes a challenge for clinicians as they can create a diagnostic dilemma. This may cause a delay at initiating treatment hence allowing time for the infection to disseminate.…”

“…In cases with abscess formation, neutrophil predominance may be observed. 1,5,9 The sensitivity of AFB staining is unsatisfactory in majority of RGM cases, although it is a fast and convenient diagnostic method. Therefore, despite being time-consuming, cultures are needed for mycobacteria detection, which also allows susceptibility testing.…”