Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Long Term Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Airway Infection in Mice
Published on: March 17, 2014
Bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial disease
David E Griffith1, Timothy R Aksamit
1Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Tyler, 75708, USA. david.griffith@uthct.edu
Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infections and bronchiectasis are closely linked, with bronchiectasis potentially predisposing individuals to NTM disease. Effective management requires addressing both conditions simultaneously.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infections and bronchiectasis are increasingly recognized as related disorders.
- A growing consensus suggests nodular/bronchiectatic NTM lung disease may arise from pre-existing bronchiectasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the close relationship between NTM lung disease and bronchiectasis.
- To emphasize the need for physicians to understand the pathogenic potential of individual NTM species.
- To underscore the importance of managing both NTM infection and bronchiectasis concurrently.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current understanding regarding NTM lung disease and bronchiectasis.
- Analysis of the relationship between NTM species and disease presentation.
- Discussion of diagnostic guidelines and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- NTM lung disease, particularly the nodular/bronchiectatic form, is strongly associated with bronchiectasis.
- Most patients with NTM lung disease also have bronchiectasis.
- Understanding the specific NTM species involved is crucial for effective treatment.
Conclusions:
- Bronchiectasis may predispose individuals to NTM infection and subsequent lung disease.
- Optimal patient care necessitates integrated therapeutic approaches for both NTM infection and bronchiectasis.
- Familiarity with NTM species' pathogenic potential is essential for applying diagnostic guidelines.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Other Pulmonary Disorders
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...
