Mycobacterium mucogenicum and Mycobacterium neoaurum bacteremia in immunocompromised hosts

Abstract

Background: Mycobacterium mucogenicum and Mycobacterium neoaurum are infrequent causes of bacteremia in humans. When they are isolated from blood, it is not unusual for them to initially be considered contaminants. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with M. mucogenicum and M. neoaurum bacteremia from January 1998 to December 2018 was conducted at the University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Results: We identified 28 patients who had bacteremia caused by these organisms. These patients were primarily immunocompromised, had chronically indwelling vascular access devices, or used intravenous drugs. For 29% of the patients, the isolation of these mycobacteria was considered colonization, whereas 82% of the patients received antimicrobial therapy and 95% had the central line removed. Conclusions: The removal of the vascular access device and treatment with either single or combination antimicrobial therapy produced successful outcomes for people with these infections.