Mycobacterium avium Complex Peritonitis in an Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Patient / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is an opportunistic bacterium that primarily infects acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients with low CD4+ T cell counts; however, peritonitis caused by MAC in AIDS patients is rare. Here, we report the first case of peritonitis caused by MAC in AIDS patients in Korea. A 41-year-old female with poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy was admitted to hospital with nonspecific symptoms; an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed substantial ascites, splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. Based on the CT scan and ascitic fluid cultures, MAC peritonitis was diagnosed. In addition to antiretroviral therapy, clarithromycin, rifabutin, and ethambutol were administered to treat the MAC infection, and the patient's symptoms improved.