Pulmonary infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria−single centre experience

. Non-tuberculosis mycobacteria are environmental organisms found in soil and water worldwide, and an infection caused by non-tuberculosis mycobacteria is less frequently found than the one associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This study was designed to evaluate data relating to non-tuberculosis mycobacteria in patients with clinical importance. Material and Methods. Of 12 patients (pts) admitted to the Department of Pulmonology, Clinical Centre of Serbia in Belgrade during 2010- 2011, seven (58.33%) were men and five (41.67%) were women. Bacteriological and radiographic findings, co−morbidity, treatment management and outcome were evaluated from medical records. Results. Using GenoType® Mycobacterium CM/AS (Hain Lifescience) assays for identification of isolated cultures of NTM) M.xenopi was found in six (50%) pts, M.avium complex in two (16.67%) pts, M.kansasii and M.xenopi in one (8.33%), M. gordone, M.abscessus and M.peregrinum in one (8.33%) patient each. Cavitary lesions were most frequently determined on high resolution computed tomography in five (41.67%) pts, followed with consolidation in two (16.67%) pts, cavitation with fibronodular lesions and bronchiectasis in one (8.33%) patient each. Comorbidities were noticed in nine (75%) pts, with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases most frequently found in six (50%) pts. According to American Thoracic Society definition and criteria, treatment was administered in nine (75%) pts. Conclusion. In order to find the right treatment, it is important to identify non-tuberculosis mycobacteria lung infection by culture methods, at least two positive, accompanied with high resolution computed tomography changes.