Mycobacterium genavense

M. genavense is characterized by extremely sparse growth, some of which may be so low in liquid cultures that it is not indicated by indicator systems. Minimal growth is also seen on agar soils and no growth is seen on egg soils. If growth is suspected, a microscopic preparation should be made from the liquid culture, even without signs of growth. In the case of M. genavense, this shows a typical picture with acid-fast, very short mycobacteria. Similarly, molecular biological detection methods may be primarily indicated when disease is suspected.

M. genavense is predominantly detected in HIV patients, but isolated cases have been reported in non-HIV patients.

The optimal therapy is not known, but clarithromycin combined with RMP, an FQ, EMB, and/or SM/amikacin is recommended (Griffith DE et al 2007).

1. Griffith DE et al (2007) Am J Respir Crit Care Med 175: 367-416.
2. Tribuna C et al (2015) Pulmonary Kaposi sarcoma and disseminated Mycobacterium genavense infection in an HIV-infected patient. BMJ Case Rep bcr2015211683.