Disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial infection mimicking lymphoma in an adult without diagnosed immunodeficiency: A case report

Abstract

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) rarely manifest with lymphoma-like symptoms in immunocompetent adults. We report the case of a 70-year-old male with a disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection. Computed tomography revealed the presence of multiple lymph nodes in various areas. Biopsies confirmed the NTM infection. Urine and pus cultures confirmed M. kansasii. Empirical antibiotic treatment was initiated; however, the patient developed acute cholangitis. Despite interventions, including choledocholithotomy and broad-spectrum antibiotics, the patient succumbed to septic shock. This case underscores the necessity of maintaining suspicion and comprehensive testing for NTM infections to enable early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and prevent fatal complications.

Keywords

• Mycobacterium kansasii
• Nontuberculous mycobacteria
• Lymphadenitis