Patient vs. Environmental Factors in Mycobacterium avium Complex Lung Disease

A susceptible host matters more than an unusual environmental dose, according to a case-control study.

Lung disease caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is becoming more prevalent. Older age, skeletal abnormalities, and gastroesophageal reflux disease have been associated with MAC lung disease, but environmental factors may also play a role.

Researchers in the Pacific Northwest recently studied the potential role of patient and environmental factors in MAC lung disease. Of 70 case patients identified, 52 were matched with 61 controls. The investigators visited the homes of these individuals to thoroughly examine environmental factors.

Several patient traits were significantly associated with MAC lung disease: low body-mass index, thoracic skeletal abnormalities, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, history of hospitalization for pneum…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Patient vs. Environmental Factors in Mycobacterium avium Complex Lung Disease

Topics

Reviewing Author