What is Mycobacterium abscessus?

Mycobacterium abscessus is a bacterium distantly related to the ones that cause tuberculosis and leprosy. It is part of a group known as rapidly growing mycobacteria and is found in water, soil and dust. It has been known to contaminate medications and products, including medical devices.

What type of infection does it cause?

M. abscessus can cause a variety of serious infections that require medical attention. Infections due to this bacterium are usually of the skin and the soft tissues under the skin. It has been rarely known to cause lung infection in persons with various chronic lung diseases.

How can this infection be transmitted?

Infection with M. abscessus is usually caused by injections of substances contaminated with the bacterium or through invasive medical procedures employing contaminated equipment or material. Infection can also occur after accidental injury where the wound is contaminated by soil. It cannot be transmitted from person to person.

How do I know if I have an infection with M. abscessus?

A medical doctor should evaluate the infection to determine if it may be due to M. abscessus. Skin infected with M. abscessus, is usually red, warm, tender to the touch, swollen, and/or painful. Infected areas can also develop boils or pus-filled vesicles. Other signs of M. abscessus infection are fever, chills, muscle aches, and a general feeling of illness. However, for a definite diagnosis, the organism has to be cultured from the infection site.