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Mycobacterium marinum causing tenosynovitis. 'Fish tank finger'
Peter Van Seymortier1, Karl Verellen, Inge De Jonge
1Department of Orthopaedics, General Hospital Jan Palfyn, Merksem, Belgium. petervanseymortier@hotmail.com
Acta Orthopaedica Belgica
|August 4, 2004
Summary
Mycobacterium marinum, a non-tuberculous mycobacterium, commonly causes skin infections. This case highlights its potential to cause deeper tenosynovitis in the upper extremity.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Mycobacterium marinum is an atypical mycobacterium known for causing skin infections.
- It is the most common non-tuberculous mycobacterial pathogen causing cutaneous lesions.
- Compared to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M. marinum exhibits lower pathogenicity in humans.
Observation:
- A male patient presented with tenosynovitis affecting the distal upper extremity.
- The infection was diagnosed as secondary to Mycobacterium marinum.
Findings:
- Mycobacterium marinum can lead to chronic cutaneous lesions.
- Deeper infections, including tenosynovitis, septic arthritis, and osteomyelitis, can occur.
- This case specifically details tenosynovitis of the distal upper extremity.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering M. marinum in non-healing skin lesions and deeper infections.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent complications.
- Contributes to understanding the clinical spectrum of M. marinum infections beyond superficial skin manifestations.