Mycobacterium avium Infection of Nasal Septum in a Diabetic Adult: A Case Report

Abstract

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is primarily a pulmonary pathogen that affects individuals who are immune deficient or immunocompromised. In this report, we describe a very rare case of MAC infection clinically presenting as a nasal polyp in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This case illustrates an atypical anatomic location for MAC, the anterior nasal septum in nasal cavity, as well as often overlooked cause of immune compromise, diabetes mellitus. We present the laboratory findings that lead to the diagnosis as well as a brief review of MAC infections.