Lung disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria

Abstract

Purpose of review: Although the incidence of tuberculosis has reduced in developed countries, there is a growing interest in nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) as a cause of lung disease. However, NTM are a heterogeneous group and most of the data come from only three species: Mycobacterium avium complex, Mycobacterium kansasii and Mycobacterium abscessus. Still, information about these three species is confusing because it is based mainly on retrospective studies and series of clinical cases performed in developed countries. In recent years, new information has appeared about other species and the pathogenesis of NTM.

Recent findings: Epidemiological studies show that NTM infection is a worldwide phenomenon with an increasing presence in developing countries perhaps because of the implementation of tap water. Women with characteristic phenotype are at higher risk of acquiring NTM infection along with patients with defects on cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulators. New studies on Mycobacterium fortuitum, Mycobacterium xenopi, Mycobacterium szulgai and Mycobacterium simiae indicate that the American Thoracic Society criteria for diagnosing NTM disease may not be useful for all species of NTM.

Summary: New multicentric and prospective studies are needed to clarify the pathogenesis and treatment of NTM. These organisms form a numerous and heterogeneous group and each species should be studied separately.