Mycobacterial Infections of the Hand

Hand infections caused by mycobacteria are relatively uncommon compared to infections caused by other pathogens; therefore, much of the available literature consists of case reports and limited case series. Broadly categorized into tuberculous and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, both tuberculous and NTM infections are typically insidious with long incubation periods and with the ability to remain dormant for prolonged periods.

We reviewed the most current literature on the epidemiology, presentations, treatment methods, and resistance patterns of mycobacterial infections of the hand focusing on the indications and outcomes of nonoperative as well as operative interventions.

The worldwide burden of tuberculosis remains high and while the overall rate of new diagnosis drug resistant tuberculosis has been on the decline some regions of the world have demonstrated staggeringly high resistance rates to first-line tuberculosis therapies. Signs and symptoms of mycobacterial hand infection are typically inconsistent, and highly dependent on the specific structures of the hand that are affected; therefore, these infections may mimic other infections of the hand like tenosynovitis, joint space infections, and cutaneous infections. The main stay of treatment remains antimycobacterial therapies including but not limited to rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.

The complications associated with mycobacterial hand infections can be significant. Prompt evaluation, including a thorough history to evaluate for potential exposures to infectious sources, followed by appropriate antibiotic choice and duration, with surgical management as needed, is key to reducing the chance that patients experience lasting effects of the infection.