Nontuberculous mycobacteria: Trick or treat – A case of Mycobacterium lentiflavum

Abstract

Mycobacterium lentiflavum is a relatively rare cause of infection. Cases of human diseases have beenreported. Most of the patients are immunocompromised. Here, we present an immunocompetentpatient with pulmonary disease. The patient has come with chronic cough and hemoptysis. Oncomputed thoracic tomography, there were bilateral cavitating centriacinar nodules, bronchiectasis,and tree‑in‑bud pattern. Microbiological analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid grew M. lentiflavum.Her symptoms are relieved with ethambutol, clarithromycin, and rifabutin. Nontuberculousmycobacteria are an emerging problem worldwide. Necessity of treatment depends on the patient.