A case of pleural effusion caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum and Mycobacterium mageritense coinfection

Abstract

Background: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria cause chronic pulmonary infection, but pleuritis and pleural effusion are rarely associated with infection with non-tuberculous mycobacteria, especially rapid-growing mycobacteria. Case presentation: A 68-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who was using prednisone, azathioprine, and certolizumab pegol presented complaining of fever, dry cough, and night sweats for the past 2 weeks. Chest examination revealed bilateral opacity that was more pronounced on her right side. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and pleural effusion fluid were obtained, and revealed coinfection with Mycobacterium fortuitum and Mycobacterium mageritense. Imipenem/cilastatin, levofloxacin, and minocycline were prescribed for 6 months, and the patient was well and asymptomatic for the subsequent 6 months. Conclusions: This is the first case report describing pleural effusion associated with coinfection with two different mycobacterial species. If the species cannot be identified, the possibility of mycobacterial coinfection should be considered.