Mycobacterium marinum with associated bursitis

J Cutan Med Surg. 1999 Apr;3(4):218-20. doi: 10.1177/120347549900300413.

Abstract

Background: Mycobacterium marinum infections have been reported for over 50 years, mostly in association with trauma in the setting of water exposure.

Objective: The differential diagnosis for nodules in a sporotrichoid distribution with simultaneous bursitis is discussed. Mycobacterium marinum treatment regimens for skin and joint involvement are reviewed.

Methods: Mycobacterium marinum was identified by skin tissue culture with Lowenstein-Jensen medium at 32 degrees C. Histopathologic findings support mycobacterial infection.

Results: Bursitis and nodules resolved in the first 2 months of a 6-month course of minocycline treatment.

Conclusion: Bursitis is an extremely rare but significant complication of M. marinum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bursitis / complications
  • Bursitis / drug therapy
  • Bursitis / microbiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Minocycline / therapeutic use
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / complications
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / diagnosis*
  • Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous / drug therapy
  • Mycobacterium marinum* / growth & development
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial / complications
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial / diagnosis*
  • Skin Diseases, Bacterial / drug therapy
  • Sporotrichosis / diagnosis

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Minocycline