Mycobacterium bolletii

Mycobacterium bolletii is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Mycobacterium. It is a member of the Mycobacterium abscessus complex, a group of rapidly growing, multidrug-resistant mycobacteria that are responsible for a wide range of infections in humans.

Taxonomy

Mycobacterium bolletii was first described in 2006 by Leao et al., who isolated it from a patient with cystic fibrosis. It was named after the French microbiologist Claude Bollet. The species is closely related to Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium massiliense, and these three species together form the Mycobacterium abscessus complex.

Characteristics

Mycobacterium bolletii is a rapidly growing, non-tuberculous mycobacterium. It is Gram-positive, acid-fast, and aerobic. The bacteria are rod-shaped and can form biofilms, which contribute to their resistance to antibiotics and disinfectants.

Pathogenicity

Mycobacterium bolletii can cause a variety of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, pulmonary infections, and disseminated infections. It is particularly associated with infections in patients with cystic fibrosis or other underlying lung diseases. The bacteria can also cause healthcare-associated infections, such as surgical site infections and catheter-related infections.

Treatment

Treatment of Mycobacterium bolletii infections is challenging due to the bacteria's inherent resistance to many antibiotics. Combination therapy with multiple antibiotics is often required, and treatment can be prolonged. Surgical debridement may also be necessary in cases of skin and soft tissue infections.

Epidemiology

Mycobacterium bolletii has been isolated from various environmental sources, including water and soil. It has a worldwide distribution and has been reported in many countries.

See also

• Mycobacterium
• Mycobacterium abscessus
• Mycobacterium massiliense
• Non-tuberculous mycobacteria
• Cystic fibrosis