Atypical mycobacterial and fungal infections in cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and fungi are prevalent in the sputum of cystic fibrosis patients and are increasingly recognized to cause clinically significant disease. In both instances the organisms are ubiquitous within the environment making exposure common, although specific risk factors that contribute to active pulmonary infection have not been identified. A consistent and aggressive approach to screening for NTM and fungi within the cystic fibrosis airway is likely indicated, especially in the setting of clinical deterioration despite standard antipseudomonal therapies.