Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections

Mycobacterial species other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae constitute nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). NTM infections are on the rise, particularly in the Western world. They cause a wide range of pulmonary and systemic manifestations. The 2 most common types are as follows: classical cavitary type, seen with preexisting lung disease , and the nonclassical bronchiectatic type, seen in elderly women without preexisting lung disease. Disseminated infections by the hematogenous route are common in immunocompromised patients including those with HIV. Imaging plays a key role in the diagnosis and monitoring of NTM infection.