A case of catheter–related bloodstream infection caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum

Abstract

Rapidly growing mycobacteria （RGM） are environmental organisms that cause broad range of nosocomial infections including pulmonary, skin, bone, and soft tissue disease. RGM are also known as a cause of catheter─related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). Because it usually takes an incubation of 3–4 days to identify RGM on blood culture media, clinicians should consider extending incubation period when RGM bloodstream infection is suspected. We present a case of CRBSI caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum in a surgical patient with central venous access device. Blood cultures were positive after an incubation of 6 days, and antibiotic therapy with levofloxacin and azithromycin was started, besides the catheter was removed. The patient fully recovered after 4 weeks of oral antibiotics. Combination antimicrobials for 4 weeks and prompt catheter removal seem to lead a good outcome.