AI Article Synopsis
- Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of Mycobacterium marinum infections are common due to their varied symptoms, leading to serious complications like tendon loss.
- Clinicians should be vigilant, especially for high-risk groups (like fishermen and aquarium hobbyists), and consider biopsies for accurate diagnosis.
- Prompt anti-mycobacterial treatment, often a combination of rifampicin, ethambutol, and clarithromycin, along with debridement for severe cases, is essential for a better prognosis.
Article Abstract
Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of Mycobacterium marinum infection is common because of its diverse manifestations. This leads to inappropriate use of antimicrobials, extension of the infection from the skin to the tenosynovium, and a poor prognosis (loss of tendons and prolonged immobilisation, secondary to multiple debridements and joint contractures). Clinicians should be aware of this type of infection, especially in subjects at risk (fishermen and aquarium enthusiasts), and those with a history of trauma coupled with exposure to water or marine life. A proactive approach to obtain a biopsy for histopathological and microbiological diagnosis is advised. Anti-mycobacterial treatment should be started promptly. The combined use of rifampicin, ethambutol, and clarithromycin appears to be effective, and debridement is indicated in patients with deep-seated infections.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/230949901001800122 | DOI Listing |
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