Clinical characteristics, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and treatment outcomes of nontuberculous mycobacterial diseases in eastern China: a retrospective cohort study (2019–2022)

Abstract

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections are rising globally, but their characteristics vary by region, complicating diagnosis and treatment. This study addresses a critical gap by analyzing 136 cases from Eastern China, providing the first detailed insights into local NTM disease patterns. By linking pathogen types, drug resistance, and treatment duration to outcomes, this work equips doctors in Eastern China to diagnose faster, choose effective therapies, and improve patient survival. These findings also urge policymakers to prioritize localized data collection and standardized protocols for NTM management globally.