Atypical mycobacterial infections of skin and soft tissue
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52226/cj9k3n07Keywords:
Nontuberculous mycobacteria, skin and soft tissue infections, aesthetic procedures.Abstract
Introduction: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental pathogens of increasing importance, responsible for skin and soft tissue infections (STIs), frequently associated with aesthetic or surgical procedures.
Objectives: To describe the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, causative agents, diagnostic correlation and evolution of patients with STIs due to NTM in a High Complexity center.
Materials and methods: A descriptive, observational, and retrospective study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023, including adults with positive cultures for NTM in skin or soft tissue samples. Clinical, microbiological, and evolutionary data were collected through review of medical records.
Results: Seventeen patients were identified (mean age 46 years, range 23–79; 65% female); three were immunocompromised (17.6%). The predominant clinical presentation was abscesses or nodules. Seven patients (41%) had a history of previous cosmetic procedures. The most frequently isolated species was M. abscessus (41%). The mean time to diagnosis was 40 days by culture and 5 days by PCR, the latter allowing for early initiation of treatment. Histological examination showed chronic inflammation in 10 patients, with granulomas in 4. Eight patients achieved complete resolution, two experienced relapses, and one died.
Discussion: NTM infections are an emerging cause of skin and soft tissue infections, linked to the increase in cosmetic procedures. The implementation of molecular techniques allows for rapid diagnosis and timely treatment.
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