Clinical Significance of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Isolated From Respiratory Specimens in Korea

摘要: Study objectives Precise epidemiologic data regarding nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung infection in many Asian countries have been relatively unavailable. In order to determine the clinical significance of NTM isolated from respiratory specimens, we reviewed medical records all patients whom isolates were recovered within a 2-year period. Materials and methods We identified specimens at Samsung Medical Center (Seoul, South Korea) obtained January 2002 December 2003. then radiologic characteristics was isolated. Patients classified as having either definite, probable, or unlikely disease, defined by guidelines both American Thoracic Society British Society. Results During study period, 1,548 794 patients. Of these patients, 131 (17%) determined definite 64 (8%) designated probable disease candidates. The most commonly involved organisms cases Mycobacterium avium complex (n = 94, 48%) abscessus 64, 33%). 195 with 82 (42%) manifested upper lobe cavitary form, 101 (52%) exhibited nodular bronchiectatic 12 (6%) unclassifiable form. Conclusions About one fourth found clinically significant infections. spectrum responsible for Korean differed those reported other regions world. However, estimates this may be underestimates due retrospective analysis. Some might “true” that could diagnosed continued evaluation follow-up.