Mycobacterium abscessus Infections in Children: A Review of Current Literature

There is limited literature on Mycobacterium abscessus infections in children and limited data about its diagnosis and management. The incidence of infections due to M abscessus appears to be increasing in certain populations and can be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.Management of these infections is challenging and relies on combination antimicrobial therapy and debridement of diseased tissue, depending on the site and extent of disease. Treatment regimens often are difficult to tolerate, and the antimicrobials used can cause significant adverse effects, particularly given the long duration of therapy needed.This review summarizes the literature and includes information from our own institution's experience on pediatric M abscessus infections including the epidemiology, transmission, clinical manifestations, and the management of these infections. Adult data have been used where there are limited pediatric data. Further studies regarding epidemiology and risk factors, clinical presentation, optimal treatment, and outcomes in children are necessary.