M. avium Complex and Other Nontuberculous Mycobacteria and HIV

Abstract

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) comprises two closely related acid-fast bacteria, M. avium and M. intracellulare. The most common clinical presentation of disease due to these organisms in adults is infection of the respiratory tract, primarily seen in immunocompetent individuals with underlying chronic pulmonary disease, while disseminated infection is primarily a complication of advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Although the incidence of disseminated MAC infection (dMAC) has declined significantly with the widespread use of potent combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), it still remains an important complication of advanced HIV infection.