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Mycobacterial Infections
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Infections

Mycobacterial Infections

Mycobacteria are a diverse group of germs that can cause serious conditions, including tuberculosis and leprosy, as well as atypical infections that may impact individuals with compromised immune systems.

Overview

Mycobacteria are a type of germ. There are many different kinds. The most common one causes tuberculosis. Another one causes leprosy. Still others cause infections that are called atypical mycobacterial infections. They are not considered "typical" because they do not cause tuberculosis, but they can still harm people, especially those with other problems that affect their immunity, such as AIDS.

Symptoms

Sometimes these infections occur with no symptoms at all. At other times, they can cause lung symptoms similar to tuberculosis, including:

  • Cough
  • Weight loss
  • Coughing up blood or mucus
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Fever and chills
  • Night sweats
  • Lack of appetite

Treatment

Medicines can treat these infections, but often more than one is needed to cure the infection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment for atypical mycobacterial lung disease typically requires a combination of at least three drugs for 12 to 18 months, and you must continue all medicines for at least 12 months after cultures become negative to reduce relapse risk.
Common adverse effects include liver enzyme elevation, hearing loss (from aminoglycosides), visual changes (from ethambutol), and gastrointestinal upset. Regular blood tests, hearing exams, and eye exams are recommended throughout therapy, and any new symptoms should be reported promptly.
Even with a normal X‑ray, clinicians may order sputum cultures or a bronchoscopy if you have persistent cough, weight loss, or night sweats, because atypical mycobacteria can cause disease without obvious radiographic changes. Early microbiologic testing helps differentiate them from tuberculosis and guides therapy.
Yes, immunocompromised patients often develop disseminated or pulmonary disease caused by non‑tuberculous mycobacteria. Diagnosis relies on sputum or tissue cultures, molecular PCR tests, and sometimes acid‑fast staining, because standard TB tests may be negative.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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