Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Respiratory Tract Infections in Eastern Asia
Author Information
Author(s): Simons Sami, van Ingen Jakko, Hsueh Po-Ren, Van Hung Nguyen, Dekhuijzen P.N. Richard, Boeree Martin J., van Soolingen Dick
Primary Institution: Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre
Hypothesis
To characterize the distribution of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) species isolated from pulmonary samples from persons in Asia and their association with pulmonary infections.
Conclusion
Nontuberculous mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium avium complex, are prevalent in pulmonary infections in Asia, with a significant portion of cases being clinically relevant.
Supporting Evidence
- Mycobacterium avium complex was the most frequently isolated species, accounting for 43%–81% of pulmonary NTM disease.
- 31% of NTM isolated from pulmonary samples were considered clinically relevant according to ATS criteria.
- High prevalence of rapidly growing mycobacteria and a history of tuberculosis are distinct characteristics of pulmonary NTM disease in Asia.
Takeaway
This study found that many people in Asia have lung infections caused by certain bacteria that are not tuberculosis, and these infections are often serious.
Methodology
The study reviewed literature from March 2009 to December 2009, focusing on English-language articles about nontuberculous mycobacteria in Asia, and abstracted data from 30 relevant articles.
Potential Biases
Different identification methods and criteria for clinical relevance may introduce bias in the findings.
Limitations
The study's limitations include language restrictions and the variability in laboratory methods used across studies.
Participant Demographics
Most patients were male (79%) and had a history of tuberculosis (37%).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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