Pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections: current state and future management

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Rising incidence of pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections (PNTM) contrasts with declining tuberculosis (TB) rates, particularly in developed countries.
• Prevalence of PNTM in low-resource settings is largely unknown due to a lack of suitable diagnostic methods.
• Environmental exposure and host-pathogen interactions are key predisposing factors for PNTM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current epidemiology and predisposing factors of PNTM.
• To discuss the challenges and ongoing efforts in controlling PNTM.
• To highlight the need for expanded research and development for neglected mycobacterial diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current trends in PNTM and TB incidence.
• Analysis of factors contributing to PNTM emergence, including environmental and socio-economic aspects.
• Discussion of diagnostic, therapeutic, and vaccine development efforts for mycobacterial diseases.

Main Results:

• Increasing global incidence of PNTM, with a concurrent decrease in TB.
• Identification of environmental proximity and population changes as drivers of PNTM.
• Significant gaps in PNTM diagnostics and control strategies, especially in developing regions.

Conclusions:

• PNTM represents a growing global health concern, often overlooked compared to TB.
• Development and environmental changes contribute to the rise of PNTM.
• Urgent need for enhanced diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines for PNTM is emphasized.