Mycobacteria other than tuberculosis; Nontuberculous atypical mycobacterial disease

Treatment of the infection depends upon the specific type of infection. As many as four to six drugs may be used to treat some infections. Treatment may last 6 months to 2 years, possibly longer in those with weakened immune systems.

Certain lymph node infections and skin lesions can be surgically removed.

The outcome depends upon the severity of the infection, the person's overall health, and their response to treatment.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of an atypical mycobacterial infection develop. HIV-positive individuals who develop a cough, rapid breathing (tachypnea), shortness of breath, or other pulmonary symptoms should see their health care provider immediately.

Images

Mycobacterium marinum infection on the hand

Antibodies

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Atypical mycobacterial infection Symptoms

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Atypical mycobacterial infection Prevention

Review Date: 10/09/2006
Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)