Growing Challenges of Lung Infections with Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria in Immunocompromised Patients: Epidemiology and Treatment.

Abstract

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are increasingly recognized as opportunistic pathogens in humans and animals, particularly affecting those with compromised immune systems. These bacteria encompass a diverse group of mycobacterial species that are responsible for a range of infections, with pulmonary and skin-related conditions being the most common. The rise in NTM infections in recent years is a growing concern for healthcare, highlighting the urgent need to improve our understanding of NTM epidemiology and treatment strategies. This article reviews the NTM species associated with lung infections in immunocompromised patients and underscores the critical importance of advancing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The review is based on a thorough analysis of scientific literature from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, covering studies up to June 2024. Through this comprehensive analysis, the article aims to provide detailed insights into the complexities of NTM diseases and spur further research and innovation in combating these challenging infections.