Urinary tract infection with atypical mycobacteria

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Atypical mycobacterial infections, particularly Mycobacterium intracellularis, are rare in the urinary tract.
• Disseminated infections are uncommon and often associated with underlying immune deficiencies.

Observation:

• A case of disseminated Mycobacterium intracellularis infection of the urinary tract is presented.
• The patient exhibited anhydrous ectodermal dysplasia and a defect in cell-mediated immunity.
• The infection led to a significant ureteral stricture, causing hydronephrosis and reduced kidney function.

Findings:

• Literature review identified only 13 prior cases of atypical mycobacterial urinary tract infection.
• The case highlights the potential for severe renal complications from such infections.
• Accurate differentiation between colonization and infection is crucial.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering atypical mycobacterial infections in immunocompromised patients with urinary symptoms.
• Distinguishing atypical mycobacterial infection from urinary tuberculosis is critical for appropriate therapeutic management.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of these rare infections is warranted.