Mycobacterium chimaera in Heater–Cooler Units in Denmark Related to Isolates from the United States and United Kingdom

Abstract

Mycobacterium chimaera was present at high rates (>80%) in heater–cooler units (HCUs) from all 5 thoracic surgery departments in Denmark. Isolates were clonal to HCU-associated isolates from the United States (including some from patients) and United Kingdom. However, M. chimaera from 2 brands of HCU were genetically distinct.

Keywords

• mycobacterium
• nontuberculous mycobacteria
• Mycobacterium avium complex
• polymorphism, single nucleotide
• water
• DNA, bacterial genetics