Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium

Introduction of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium

Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium infections are caused by germs which are usually

found in stagnated water and soil. It is still unclear as to why this germ causes
infections for a few people and does not affect others but doctors are of the
opinion that people who already have a disease condition or any sort of damage
to the lungs are more prone to get affected by this disease. These infections are
not contagious but tend to be potentially serious. There are instances where
people have required up to a year of treatment before being fully treated.
Causes of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium
Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections are caused by bacteria found in
stagnated water and soil. They belong to a broader family of bacteria which
includes the bacteria that causes a serious medical condition called Tuberculosis.
Non-tuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections are not contagious. The prevalence of
these infections has increased over the years but the exact cause of it is still
unknown.

How serious are Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium infections?

Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium infections can become chronic and require
ongoing treatment. Some patients, however, do not require treatment for their
less severe infections.
Who is at risk for developing Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium?
Researchers are of the opinion that Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections
are found equally in both males and females but they are mostly found in
whites.

Symptoms of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium

Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections symptoms are quite similar to that

of any other infection of lung or respiratory disease and may include:
Fever
Haemoptysis
Cough
Weight loss
Appetite loss
Tiredness
Sweating at night

Diagnoses of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium

After conducting a detailed history and physical exam and taking history the
treating doctor will order the following tests:
CT scan of the chest to look at the structure of the lungs in detail
Lab tests
Bronchoscopy

Treatments of Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium

Almost all of the Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections are treated with

strong antibiotics. The duration of the treatment may be for at least a year. There
may be significant side effects due to chronic use of antibiotics and hence the
treating physicians carefully monitor patients under treatment for NonTuberculosis Mycobacterium Infections.