Mycobacterium xenopi Laryngitis: A Case Report of an Unusual Presentation and Diagnostic Challenge

Mycobacterium xenopi (M. xenopi) is a less common nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) responsible for pulmonary and other infections and can be a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge requiring prolonged courses of triple-drug therapy. We managed a case of isolated M. xenopi laryngitis in an immunocompetent patient after they presented with dysphonia and a nonspecific unilateral vocal fold lesion. This patient was treated with complete surgical excision alone, and negative cultures and symptom resolution were achieved in the absence of antimicrobials. Laryngeal infection by M. xenopi is a rare diagnosis, so it is important to keep NTM infections on the differential, and once confirmed by pathology and culture, to be aware of the option for surgical excision for definitive treatment.