Mycobacterium celatum

Mycobacterium celatum is a slow-growing mycobacterium that has been described primarily in connection with pulmonary infections in HIV-infected individuals, but also in immunocompetent individuals. Infections occur primarily by inhalation or direct inoculation from the environment.

Local infections of the skin with sportrichoid spread have been described in HIV-negative immunocompromised males.

The incidence of nontuberculous mycobacterial infections is increasing worldwide, with more than 190 species and subspecies documented by 2020. Although infections with NTMs are classically associated with immunosuppression, the fact that these pathogens also occur in diseases of immunocompetent individuals and in healthcare-associated infections, e.g., after surgical and cosmetic procedures, makes the study of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of these microorganisms relevant to medical practice.

Good treatment results are described with the combination of clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin and ethambutol.

1. Chavarria M et al. (2018) TB or not TB? Mycobacterium celatum mimicking Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A case of mistaken identity. IDCases 11:83-87.
2. Leduc JM et al (2012) Mycobacterium celatum skin infection with sporotrichoid spread in an HIV-negative immunocompromised man. J Am Acad Dermatol 66:e247-9.