• Mark L Metersky, David Fraulino, Lea Monday, and Teena Chopra.
• Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
• Postgrad Med. 2024 Sep 1; 136 (7): 770781770-781.

BackgroundThe prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacteria pulmonary disease (NTM-PD), particularly caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), is rising due to improved diagnostics, increased awareness, and more susceptible populations. NTM-PD significantly affects quality of life and imposes substantial economic costs. Understanding its clinical features, risk factors, and treatment challenges is vital for enhancing patient outcomes.Patients And MethodsA convenience sample from the University of Connecticut Health Center and Wayne State University involving patients with NTM-PD from 2021 to 2024 was studied retrospectively. Cases were selected to demonstrate typical diagnostic and treatment challenges, followed by a multidisciplinary roundtable discussion to examine patient-centered care strategies.ResultsAnalysis of six cases pinpointed chronic lung conditions and immunomodulatory therapy as key risk factors. Standard treatment, involving extensive multi-drug regimens, frequently results in poor adherence due to side effects and complex management requirements. The discussions underlined the importance of a customized, interdisciplinary approach to improve treatment effectiveness and patient quality of life.ConclusionsNTM-PD is an escalating public health issue with notable clinical and economic consequences. Managing this disease effectively demands a comprehensive, patient-centered strategy that includes precise diagnosis, flexible treatment plans, and collaborative care.

25 keywords...

hide…