Cutaneous Infection With Mycobacterium kansasii in a Patient With Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Sweet Syndrome
Nontuberculous mycobacteria infection is a rare sequela of hematologic malignancy, seen in only 1.5% of patients. Mycobacterium kansasii is a slow-growing, acid-fast bacillus found in local water reservoirs, swimming pools, sewers, and tap water where it can live for up to 12 months. The unpredictable presentation of cutaneous M kansasii infection coupled with the variable history necessitates a high level of clinical suspicion and a low threshold for culturing lesions.
The unpredictable presentation of cutaneous M kansasii infection coupled with the variable history necessitates a high level of clinical suspicion and a low threshold for culturing lesions. Furthermore, the long duration and complexity of the antibiotic regimen and the high incidence of adverse reactions demands strict follow-up, especially given the risk for progression to disseminated disease.
