Cutaneous lesions due to Mycobacterium kansasii

A recipient of a renal homograft had cutaneous lesions on the lower extremities that resembled pyogenic abscesses. Staphylococcus aureus consistently grew from cultures and despite appropriate antibiotics, the lesions did not completely resolve. When special cultures were done, Mycobacterium kansasii was discovered. In immunocompromised patients with infectious cutaneous lesions, skin biopsy using appropriate stains and cultures should be considered early in the course of the illness.