Getting a Better Molecular Handle on Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacteria

In a U.S. study, 45 ENTM isolates included 20 that were Mycobacterium avium and 20 that comprised rapidly growing microorganisms.

The genetics and molecular biology of extrapulmonary nontuberculous mycobacteria (ENTM) are not well understood, and accurately identifying species is often beyond the scope of clinical microbiology laboratories. To better characterize ENTM, four sites within the CDC's Emerging Infections Program carried out population- and laboratory-based surveillance.

A total of 45 ENTM isolates were analyzed with whole-genome sequencing. Of these, 25 comprised slowly growing mycobacteria, 20 of which were identified as Mycobacterium avium. Among the 20 rapidly growing mycobacteria, 4 were M. abscessus. Identification by the CDC and the referring laboratories differed for 7 isolates. No antibiotic resistance mutations were noted among the M. avium isolate…

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)

Getting a Better Molecular Handle on Extrapulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacteria

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Reviewing Author