Shifting paradigms of nontuberculous mycobacteria in cystic fibrosis

Respir Res. 2014 Apr 11;15(1):41. doi: 10.1186/1465-9921-15-41.

Abstract

Important paradigms of pulmonary disease with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are currently shifting based on an increasing attention within the field of cystic fibrosis (CF). These shifts are likely to benefit the management of all patients with pulmonary NTM, regardless of underlying pathology. Currently several key areas are being revised: The first outbreak of human NTM transmission has been proven and new evidence of biofilm growth in vivo has been demonstrated. A better understanding of the clinical impact of NTM infection has led to increased diagnostic vigilance and new recommendations for lung transplantation are under way. While recent changes have reinvigorated the interest in NTM disease, the challenge remains, whether such advances can be successfully translated into improved management and care.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biofilms / drug effects
  • Biofilms / growth & development
  • Cystic Fibrosis / diagnosis
  • Cystic Fibrosis / drug therapy
  • Cystic Fibrosis / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / diagnosis
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / drug therapy
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / epidemiology*
  • Nontuberculous Mycobacteria / drug effects
  • Nontuberculous Mycobacteria / isolation & purification*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents