Treatment of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease
Publication Date: July 6, 2020
Last Updated: March 14, 2022
Recommendations
Treatment of NTM Pulmonary Disease
In patients who meet the diagnostic criteria for NTM pulmonary disease, we suggest initiation of treatment rather than watchful waiting, especially in the context of positive acid-fast bacilli sputum smears and/or cavitary lung disease. (C, VL)
Remarks:
The decision to initiate antimicrobial therapy for NTM pulmonary disease should be individualized based on a combination of clinical factors, the infecting species, and individual patient priorities. Any treatment decision should include a discussion with the patient that outlines the potential side effects of antimicrobial therapy, the uncertainties surrounding the benefits of antimicrobial therapy, and the potential for recurrence including reinfection (particularly in the setting of nodular/bronchiectatic disease)
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Title
Treatment of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease
Authoring Organizations
American Thoracic Society
European Respiratory Society
Infectious Diseases Society of America