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Atypical mycobacterial infection Causes and Risks:
Atypical mycobacterial infection can cause infections such as abscesses , septic arthritis and osteomyelitis (bone infection). It can infect the lungs, the lymph glands , or skin and soft tissues.
Several species of Mycobacterium cause different infections. Mycobacterium avium intracellulare frequently affects AIDS patients. Mycobacterium marinum and M. ulcerans cause skin infections. M. marinum is responsible for swimming pool granuloma. M. avium-intracellulare and M. kansasii cause lung disease .
Atypical mycobacterial infections occur in approximately 3 out of 10,000 people annually but the incidence is increasing as the AIDS population grows. Populations at risk include individuals with pre-existing lung disease and immunocompromised ( immunosuppressed ) persons.
Prevention:
Rifabutin has been recommended for AIDS patients with CD4 counts less than 100.
Symptoms:
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Signs and Tests:
Tests to determine infection: This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
Treatment:
Treatment of the infection depends upon the sensitivity of the infecting organism to specific antibiotics. As many as 4-6 drugs may be used to treat some infections and treatment may require 6 months to 2 years. Certain lymph node infections and skin lesions can be surgically removed. Treatment in immunocompromised ( immunosuppressed ) patients may require even more extended periods.
Prognosis:
The outcome depends upon the severity of the infection, the resistance of the organism, the individuals immune status and, ultimately, the response to treatment.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms develop that indicate an atypical mycobacterial infection may be present. HIV positive individuals who develop a cough , rapid breathing ( tachypnea ), dyspnea or other pulmonary symptoms should see their health care provider immediately.
This bacterial infection is caused by Mycobacterium marinum, and is not frequently seen (atypical). Marinum is a relative of the organism which causes tuberculosis. This lesion is often referred to as a swimming pool granuloma. Atypical mycobacterial infections may cause life-threatening disease in people with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised individuals).
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