Mycobacteria other than tuberculosis – prevalence, symptoms, diagnostics and treatment

Abstract

As a class of bacteria, mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT), also known as nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM), affect both immunocompetents and immunodeficients. Non-specific clinical symptoms caused by these bacteria include respiratory diseases, which often results in delayed diagnosis. This article discusses the spread, diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment of MOTT in the world. In view of the fact that NTM are prevalent in the environment, their isolation from the upper respiratory system of the respiratory tract does not necessarily indicate an active infection. To make an accurate diagnosis, clinical, radiographic, and microbiological factors must be considered. Clinical symptoms of NTM infection can be difficult to diagnose, even for experienced clinicians, due to their similarity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Based on the determined antibiogram, targeted treatment can be selected based on identification and drug susceptibility of the microorganism. There are a variety of therapeutic options, depending on the pathogen’s growth rate. However, it is always important to keep in mind the side effects of the drugs used and to choose the best treatment based on the individual patient’s clinical condition.