Disseminated infection due to Mycobacterium chelonae with scleritis, spondylodiscitis and spinal epidural abscess

Abstract

Mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT) have a low incidence as pathogens in human pathology. The most frequent clinical expression is the disseminated disease in subjects with compromised cellular immunity. Bacteriological characteristics in culture can generate confusion with other pathogens, which delays the appropriate diagnosis and treatment. We present a case of a disseminated infection due to Mycobacterium chelonae with scleritis, spondylodiscitis and spinal epidural abscess in a man with a medical background of cellular immunity deficit induced by therapeutic drugs. The antibiotic scheme of twenty-one weeks, during the follow-up period, controlled the infection, however, the optimum duration of treatment has not been established. © 2008 by The Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Contexto Publishing. All rights reserved.