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Lymphadenitis due to atypical mycobacteria
Alabama Medicine : Journal of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, a rare cause of infection in adults, can lead to rapidly enlarging masses. Treatment involves surgical removal due to drug resistance.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Group II atypical mycobacteria, specifically Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, are typically linked to lymphadenitis in pediatric populations.
- This case highlights a rare instance of M. scrofulaceum infection in an immunocompetent adult.
Observation:
- A rapidly enlarging preauricular mass was observed in an adult patient.
- Biopsied tissue culture confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium scrofulaceum.
Findings:
- Mycobacterium scrofulaceum is an uncommon pathogen in immunocompromised adults.
- The isolated M. scrofulaceum strain exhibited resistance to multiple chemotherapy agents commonly used for tuberculosis treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering atypical mycobacteria in adult infections presenting as rapidly growing masses.
- Effective treatment for M. scrofulaceum necessitates surgical excision of affected nodes and overlying skin due to antimicrobial resistance.