Mycobacterium avium
Mycobacterium avium
Mycobacterium avium (pronunciation: my-co-bac-te-ri-um a-vi-um) is a species of the genus Mycobacterium which is known to cause infections in humans, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
Etymology
The term "Mycobacterium" is derived from the Greek words "mykes" meaning fungus and "bakterion" meaning small rod, referring to the rod-like appearance of these bacteria under a microscope. "Avium" is Latin for "of birds," as this species was first isolated from birds.
Description
Mycobacterium avium is a non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) and is often found in the environment, particularly in soil, water, and dust. It is known to cause a type of lung disease called Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of MAC lung disease can include chronic cough, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and occasionally shortness of breath and chest pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Mycobacterium avium infection typically involves a combination of clinical findings, radiographic evidence, and microbiological cultures.
Treatment
Treatment for Mycobacterium avium infection typically involves a combination of antibiotics, often including macrolides, ethambutol, and rifamycins.
Related Terms
- Mycobacterium
- Mycobacterium avium complex
- Non-tuberculous mycobacteria
- Macrolides
- Ethambutol
- Rifamycins
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mycobacterium avium
- Wikipedia's article - Mycobacterium avium
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