Disseminated <it>Mycobacterium avium </it>complex infection in an immunocompetent pregnant woman

• Main Authors: Kim Woo, Sohn Jang, Kang Eun, Choi Won, Kee Sae, Park Cheong, Song Joon, Kim Min, Cheong Hee
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2006-10-01
• Series: BMC Infectious Diseases
• Online Access: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2334/6/154

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Disseminated mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) occurs mainly in immunocompromised hosts, which is associated with abnormal cellular immunity.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A 26-year-old pregnant woman presented with fever and general weakness. Miliary lung nodules were noted on chest X-ray. Under the impression of miliary tuberculosis, anti-tuberculosis medication was administered. However, the patient was not improved. Further work-up demonstrated MAC in the sputum and placenta. The patient was treated successfully with clarithromycin-based combination regimen.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>This appears to be the first case of disseminated MAC in an otherwise healthy pregnant woman. Clinicians should be alert for the diagnosis of MAC infection in diverse clinical conditions.</p>