What is Non-tuberculous mycobacterium?
Mycobacteria are a large cluster of bacteria that cause disease in humans. Mycobacterium tuberculosis can cause serious pulmonary as well as other types of diseases and is a very contagious disease.
Non-tuberculous mycobacterium is a group within the family of Mycobacterium which includes all the other mycobacteria which can cause the following:
- Pulmonary disease
- Pulmonary disease
- Skin disease
- Lymphadenitis
- Disseminated disease
What causes Non-tuberculous mycobacterium?
Non-tuberculous mycobacterium, unlike Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is not contagious and is contracted from the environment. Risk factors for contracting Non-tuberculous mycobacterium are frenetic (female), older than 50 years of age, thin, history of smoking cigarettes or other lung disease such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis.
What are the symptoms of Non tuberculous mycobacterium?
Symptoms of Non tuberculous mycobacterium infection include but are not limited to:
- Coughing
- Coughing up blood
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
How is Non-tuberculous mycobacterium diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Non-tuberculous mycobacterium normally requires an x-ray or CT scan of the chest. In certain cases a bronchoscopy procedure is used for diagnosis. Bronchoscopy uses a fiberoptic camera that is inserted into the lung via the nose or mouth.
How is Non tuberculous mycobacterium treated?
Non tuberculous mycobacterium easily becomes resistant to antibiotics so treatment is usually made with several antibacterial agents. Normally at least 3 different drugs will be needed and treatment is long-term for up to one year.
What can I expect on my first visit to Miami Pulmonary Specialists?
On your first visit, a medical history and physical exam will be performed. A chest x-ray and lab work may be performed as well. Additional tests include a Pulmonary function test. Follow up testing such as CT scan of the chest and a bronchoscopy may be needed prior to beginning a treatment plan.
Contact Miami Pulmonary Specialists if you have non tuberculous mycobacterium.