A Case of Sepsis by Mycobacterium abscessus in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis / 감염과화학요법

ABSTRACT

Mycobacterium abscessus is a rapid growing pathogenic nontuberculous mycobacterium, which causes systemic disseminated infections as well as localized infections such as skin and soft tissue infections. We experienced a case of M. abscessus sepsis secondary to septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and cellulitis in a rheumatoid arthritis patient. A 68-year old female with rheumatoid arthritis developed skin and soft tissue infections in upper and lower extremities. Acid fast bacilli were identified from the pus smear of hand. While receiving anti-tuberculosis medication, M. abscessus was identified in blood culture, pus from hand, synovial fluid of foot, and urine. With surgical debridement and medications containing clarithromycin, her condition gradually improved and was discharged.