Disseminated Mycobacterium fortuitum successfully treated with combination therapy including ciprofloxacin

We report a case of disseminated Mycobacterium fortuitum in a 76-yr-old male with no identifiable predisposing factors except chronic interstitial lung disease. Recurrent, progressive pulmonary symptoms and radiographic findings were followed by the development of multiple, culture-positive peripheral lesions. The patient responded rapidly and completely to combination therapy consisting primarily of ciprofloxacin, minocycline, and surgical drainage. Our experience supports the cautious use and further study of fluorinated quinolones for M. fortuitum infections caused by susceptible isolates.