Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections—A neglected and emerging problem
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Date
2020-02-27
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Infectious Diseases
Abstract
Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous dwellers of environmental niches and are an
established cause of natural and nosocomial infections. The incidence of NTM infections is rising owing to
a growing population of immunocompromised and vulnerable individuals, complex medical and surgical
procedures, as well as increased awareness and diagnostic capabilities. The prevalence of different NTM
varies between continents, regions, and countries. The true global burden of pulmonary and
extrapulmonary disease is unknown and estimates are subject to under and/or over-estimation.
Diagnosis requires confirmation by isolation of NTM along with clinical and radiological criteria, which
may be suboptimal at all levels. Susceptibility testing is complex and clinical breakpoints are not available
for many of the drugs. Frequently, NTM infections are not considered until late in the course of disease.
Improved and rapid detection of tuberculosis cases in high-burden countries has, however, also brought
NTM infections into the limelight, and has identified a need for research efforts towards rapid diagnostic
tests and the identification of biomarkers to monitor the treatment response in patients with NTM
infections.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Non-tuberculous mycobacteria, Diagnosis, Epidemiology, Tuberculosis endemic regions