Mycobacterium fortuitum lung abscess: resolution with prolonged trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole therapy

Mycobacterium fortuitum rarely causes lung disease despite its sporadic isolation as a saprophytic colonizer from sputum or saliva. If pulmonary disease occurs, it is usually indolent in nature. The case presented appears to be the first reported case of a M. fortuitum lung abscess that was successfully treated with a prolonged course of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. The patient remains well without evidence of recurrence nearly 2 yr after the cessation of therapy.