Progressive, Cutaneous Nodules in an Immunocompromised Patient

Abstract Mycobacterium chelonae is one of the rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacteria. It can cause localized and disseminated cutaneous infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Cutaneous lesions are typically painful and nodular, and they present most commonly on the lower extremities. Diagnosis of M chelonae infection is made by culturing the organism from the tissue biopsy specimen. Treatment generally depends on the location and severity of the infection and the underlying immune status of the patient. Treatment typically is a course of combination therapy with 2 to 4 agents, followed by several months’ therapy with 1 to 2 agents. Tobramycin is the aminoglycoside of choice.