Mycobacterium fortuitum

Mycobacterium fortuitum is a nontuberculous mycobacterium, one of the species of the Mycobacterium fortuitum complex, and is associated with a variety of human infections.

Taxonomy

Mycobacterium fortuitum is a member of the Mycobacterium fortuitum complex, which also includes Mycobacterium peregrinum and Mycobacterium senegalense. These species are part of the larger group of nontuberculous mycobacteria, which are mycobacteria that do not cause tuberculosis or leprosy.

Characteristics

Mycobacterium fortuitum is a Rapidly growing mycobacterium (RGM). It is acid-fast, and can be stained with Ziehl-Neelsen stain. It is capable of growth in a variety of conditions, including in the presence of disinfectants and antibiotics.

Clinical significance

Mycobacterium fortuitum can cause a variety of infections in humans, including skin infections, lung infections, and bone and joint infections. It is also associated with catheter-related infections and postoperative infections. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics, and may also include surgical debridement.

Epidemiology

Mycobacterium fortuitum is found worldwide, and can be isolated from a variety of environmental sources, including water and soil. It is not typically transmitted from person to person, but rather is acquired from the environment.

See also

• Mycobacterium
• Nontuberculous mycobacteria
• Mycobacterium fortuitum complex

References

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