Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes for Patients Infected With Mycobacterium Haemophilum

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Siriraj Hospital, the largest academic hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, during January 2012–September 2017. We identified all patients who were given a diagnosis of M. haemophilum infection by culture or molecular methods. Specimens of all types underwent smear microscopic analysis by using auramine–rhodamine staining and mycobacterial culture by using Lowenstein-Jensen solid medium and liquid medium containing mycobacteria growth indicator. All specimens were incubated at 35°C, and those from skin, bone, and joint were also incubated at 30°C. We performed species identification by using the INNO-LiPA Mycobacteria Version 2 Assay (Innogenetics [now Fujiregio], https://www.fujirebio-europe.com). We reviewed baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, microbiological data, antimicrobial and surgical treatment, and clinical outcome. All patients were followed up for ≥1 year after diagnosis. This study was approved by the institutional review board committee at Siriraj Hospital (Chart of Accounts no. Si 630/2017).

Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2019;25(9):1648-1652. © 2019 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)