Non-tuberculous mycobacteria in tuberculosis epidemic settings in South Africa

Abstract

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are often isolated from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected individuals, but there is very little information documented about the prevalence of NTM in community settings. An increase in NTM infection is also noted in HIV-negative people. Although it is as yet unknown whether the organisms cause desease in HIV-negative individuals or whether they are merely commensal organisms, their affect on HIV-positive individuals is unquestionable.