All Mycobacteria are not Tubercular: A Case Report

Abstract

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a common infection in developing countries with high morbidity and mortality. However, NonTuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) are common environmental organisms which closely resemble tuberculosis but rarely present with disease in immunocompromised patients. They have different growth requirements, identification methods and treatment options when compared to tuberculosis and require individualised care. Here we present a case of Mycobacterium simiae infection in an immunocompetent patient presenting like tubercular infection with good outcomes after treatment.

Keywords

• bronchiectasis
• immunocompetent
• mycobacterium simiae