Mycobacterium fortuitum infection after cosmetic procedure with poly-l-lactic acid: a case report

Abstract

A 60-year female patient sought care at the dental diagnostic service of the Lauro Wanderley University Hospital with an infection caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum, a type of nontuberculosis mycobacterium and rapidly developed after the aesthetic procedure of filling with poly-l-lactic acid, better known commercially as Sculptra. At the extra-oral examination, the patient presented swelling on the right side of the face, near the labial commissure, without abnormalities intraorally. The patient did not present systemic diseases or report the use of alcohol, cigarettes, or illicit drugs. The infection was confirmed by ultrasonography, blood count, and culture test, and has been treated with an association of antibiotics, such as levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, and accompanied by a specialized doctor.