In Mycobacterium abscessus Complex Lung Infection, Species and Phenotype May Define Outcome

Improved outcomes were associated with infections owing to M. massiliense versus M. abscessus, as well as a smooth colony morphology and clarithromycin susceptibility.

The Mycobacterium abscessus complex is the most common cause of chronic pneumonia owing to rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacteria. The complex is currently divided into three species: M. abscessus, M. massiliense, and M. bolletii. Among these, M. abscessus is considered to be the most difficult to treat and can develop inducible macrolide resistance once therapy is begun. Now, two studies from South Korea assess microbial characteristics and treatment outcomes in patients with M. abscessus lung disease.

In the first study, Park and colleagues retrospectively compared outcomes of 56 patients with pulmonary infections owing to M. abscessus versus 54 patients with infections owing to M. massiliense. Species were identified based on rpoB ge…

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)

In Mycobacterium abscessus Complex Lung Infection, Species and Phenotype May Define Outcome

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Reviewing Author