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Pulmonary disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Albert B. Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington 40536-0084.
Journal of Thoracic Imaging
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary infections are increasingly common and often missed. Recognizing their subtle radiographic signs, distinct from tuberculosis, aids timely diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) pulmonary infections are rising in prevalence.
- Diagnosis is frequently delayed due to subtle or slowly changing radiographic findings.
- Radiographic features often mimic those of tuberculosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the radiographic characteristics of NTM pulmonary infections.
- To improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate prompt treatment initiation.
- To differentiate NTM infections from tuberculosis based on imaging.
Main Methods:
- Review of radiographic findings in patients with NTM pulmonary infections.
- Comparison of NTM imaging features with those of tuberculosis.
- Analysis of common patterns such as fibroproductive nodules.
Main Results:
- Radiographic findings in NTM infections are typically identical to tuberculosis.
- Cavitary disease is less frequent in NTM infections compared to tuberculosis.
- The most common finding is slowly evolving clustered fibroproductive nodules.
Conclusions:
- Mycobacterium kansasii infections respond well to treatment.
- Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare infections are challenging to treat.
- Increased awareness of NTM radiographic patterns can improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.