Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients over the last decade: real-life data from Verona CF center

<b>Background:</b> NTM are one of the most challenging pathogens in patients (pts) with CF, both for diagnosis and treatment. The aim of our study is to present clinical and microbiological data of CF pts with at least one NTM finding. <b>Materials and methods:</b> For every patient with the first airway NTM isolation in 2010-2019, we extracted data about the 12 months before and the 24 months after NTM finding. <b>Results:</b> Airway NTM was reported in 39 pts (Females 54%), representing 4.9% of the whole CF population followed at our center. Mean age at first NTM isolation was 34.2 ± 14.3. 19.5% had F/F genotype. 71.8% was pancreatic insufficient, 33.3% had CFRD. Chronic P.aeruginosa, MRSA and Aspergillus were present in 82%, 10.2% and 66.6% respectively. M.abscessus, M.intracellulare and M.avium spp represented 41%, 33.3% and 10.2%. M.abscessus was more frequent in NTM colonized pts (56%), in comparison to pts with isolated NTM finding (14.2%, group A). Among colonized pts, 9 weren’t treated (group B), 16 were treated according to guidelines (group C). Mean ppFEV1 in the 12 months before NTM finding was 67.6 ±24.4; no change was shown in the 12 and 24 months following the first NTM, in neither group. Admission to hospital rate did not change in the 3 groups over 24 months after the first NTM finding. Treatment was successful in 6/16 pts. M.abscessus was more prevalent in unsuccessful treatment. <b>Conclusions:</b> NTM prevalence complies to literature. Eradication was obtained in 37.5%, proving the challenging nature of NTM treatment in CF; this appears more evident in M.abscessus isolation. Wider populations are needed to infere clinical evolution in different NTM species.