What is Mycobacterium Abscessus?

Mycobacterium abscessus is a mycobacterium of the same genus as the microbes that cause the diseases leprosy and tuberculosis. While this mycobacterium can infect various parts of the body, it usually infects the skin and the tissues beneath the skin. These mycobacteria are typically found in water and soil. Mycobacterim abscessus infection is generally spread through contact with contaminated soil, water, or objects. Mycobacterium abscessus is not considered contagious from person to person, and usually enters the body through a break in the skin.

Infections with Mycobacterium abscessus can often cause serious symptoms. These mycobacteria mostly infect the skin, but can, in rare cases, infect the lungs, especially in those with a history of chronic lung afflictions. It usually spreads through direct physical contact with contaminated areas, rather than through person-to-person contact. Infected persons are, however, generally advised to keep the infection site clean and wash their hands frequently, to avoid bacterial contamination of the environment.

Chronic respiratory conditions, open wounds and lowered immunity are some of the primary risk factors for the contraction of this mycobacterial infection. This bacterium can contaminate medical implements, including hypodermic syringes, so that it often infects those who receive injections or surgical procedures in improperly sanitized surroundings. Persons infected with this bacterium are generally advised to inform the diagnosing physician of the nature and location of any recent procedures. In this manner, hospitals and clinics can be warned of the possibility that their equipment may be contaminated with Mycobacterium abscessus.

The bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium abscessus usually causes skin symptoms, including redness, swelling, and pain. The infected area may be warm. Boils, or subcutaneous nodules filled with pus, may form. More generalized symptoms can include feelings of malaise, chills, fever, and muscle aches. In severe cases, the mycobacterium can enter the bloodstream and lead to systemic infection.

A definitive diagnosis of Mycobacterium abscesses can often be made by culturing pus from an infected boil, or by examining a biopsy sample of infected skin. Antibiotics can be prescribed to treat this infection, but are often effective only after prolonged use. While antibiotics are usually necessary to combat Mycobacterium abscessus infection, treatment can also involve cleaning pus from infected boils and even surgically excising infected tissue.

Mycobacterium abscessus is a rapidly growing, non-tuberculous mycobacterium that can cause serious infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. It typically leads to skin, soft tissue, and lung infections, which can be challenging to treat due to its resistance to many antibiotics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it's one of the most drug-resistant mycobacteria.

Transmission of Mycobacterium abscessus is not fully understood, but it is thought to be acquired from the environment, particularly water and soil. It is not believed to be highly contagious between people. Healthcare-associated transmission can occur through contaminated medical equipment or procedures, as reported in various clinical studies.

Symptoms of a Mycobacterium abscessus infection can include chronic cough, fever, weight loss, and skin lesions or abscesses. In lung infections, patients may experience respiratory issues similar to tuberculosis. Skin infections often present as painful, red, or swollen wounds that do not heal properly.

Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions like cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for contracting Mycobacterium abscessus. Healthcare settings can also pose a risk due to possible exposure through invasive procedures or contaminated equipment.

Diagnosing Mycobacterium abscessus involves a combination of clinical assessment and laboratory tests. Cultures of sputum, skin, or tissue samples are typically taken to identify the presence of the bacteria. Advanced molecular methods, such as PCR, can also be used for rapid detection and species identification.

Treatment for Mycobacterium abscessus infections usually involves a combination of multiple antibiotics for an extended period, often exceeding 12 months. The regimen can include macrolides, aminoglycosides, and carbapenems, among others. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue. Due to its resistance, treatment plans are often tailored to the individual's specific strain and sensitivity profile.