Iatrogenic infection by atypical mycobacteria: a case report of M. phlei infection in an immunocompetent patient simulating breast malignancy
Introduction: Atypical nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) constitute a diverse group of environmental organisms capable of causing infections in immunocompromised patients. Mycobacterium phlei has limited documentation of clinical disease in the literature. Case presentation: We present the case o...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Journal of Infection in Developing Countries |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.jidc.org/index.php/journal/article/view/21174 |
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| Summary: | Introduction: Atypical nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) constitute a diverse group of environmental organisms capable of causing infections in immunocompromised patients. Mycobacterium phlei has limited documentation of clinical disease in the literature.
Case presentation: We present the case of a 68-year-old immunocompetent female with type II diabetes mellitus and a recent history of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. One month postoperatively, the patient developed localized wound complications followed by the appearance of a growing axillary mass. Imaging studies suggested possible malignancy (BIRADS-4), but histopathological evaluation revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation without malignant cells.
Results: the diagnosis was a rare case of lymphadenitis due to M. phlei, confirmed by histology and molecular diagnostics. The patient responded favorably to combination antibiotic therapy.
Conclusions: Through this report, we share our experience and expand the understanding of this entity, emphasizing the importance of considering this differential diagnosis and establishing appropriate guidelines for therapeutic decision-making, emphasizing in NTM.
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| ISSN: | 1972-2680 |