Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2025
Deciphering and Imaging Pathogenesis and Cording of Mycobacterium abscessus in Zebrafish Embryos
Published on: September 9, 2015
Clinical features of mesotherapy-associated non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections: A systematic review
Melissa E Singsing1, Steven G Duncan1, M Jonathan Vachon1
1University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Texas.
Abstract:
Cutaneous infections from non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a well-documented but poorly characterized adverse event following mesotherapy injections.
Objective:
This study aims to consolidate the available literature to characterize demographic and clinical features of mesotherapy-associated NTM infections.
Methods:
Using PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases was undertaken for articles reporting cases of NTM skin infections following mesotherapy. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel.
Results:
Of 1966 search results, 30 articles (N = 423 patients) met inclusion criteria. Studies were largely from South America, and patients were mostly women aged 16-55 with NTM infections arising in the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs. Nearly all patients developed multiple, well-localized lesions without systemic symptoms. Effect summary by meta-analysis revealed most infections resolved after antibiotic therapy, though many patients required multiple antibiotic courses and/or agents to resolve infection. Infections often took weeks to resolve and were complicated by post-treatment scarring.
Limitations:
The main limitation of this study was the heterogeneity and lack of consistency between case reports.
Conclusion:
Cutaneous NTM infections associated with mesotherapy generally occur in women of childbearing age, arise from injections contaminated by the environment, and are often complicated by scarring/poor cosmesis and prolonged treatment course.
Insights
Mesotherapy injections can cause skin infections from non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). Most cases in women aged 16-55 resolved with antibiotics, but often required multiple treatments and could cause scarring.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Aesthetics
Background:
- Cutaneous infections from non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are an adverse event following mesotherapy.
- These infections are poorly characterized, necessitating a comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate existing literature on mesotherapy-associated NTM infections.
- To characterize the demographic and clinical features of these infections.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases following PRISMA guidelines.
- Inclusion of 30 articles reporting NTM skin infections post-mesotherapy (N=423 patients).
- Data analysis using Microsoft Excel.
Main Results:
- Studies predominantly from South America; patients were mostly women (16-55 years).
- Infections typically localized to abdomen, buttocks, or thighs, presenting as multiple lesions without systemic symptoms.
- Most infections resolved with antibiotic therapy, though often requiring multiple courses/agents and resulting in scarring.
Conclusions:
- Mesotherapy-associated NTM infections commonly affect women of childbearing age.
- Infections likely arise from environmental contamination of injection materials.
- Prolonged treatment courses and cosmetic complications like scarring are frequent.
Related Concept Videos
01:31Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
01:26Pulmonary Tuberculosis IV
Several diagnostic approaches are used to detect TB. The conventional method is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), also known as the Mantoux test. However, this method has...
01:28Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the...
01:29Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
01:30Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description