NTM lung disease is caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria. These bacteria are found in soil and water and can also be present in tame or wild animal populations. NTM infections have become increasingly common over the last ten years and are most likely to impact those over 65 years of age. NTM can cause scarring in the lungs, but mild cases might simply run their course and resolve on their own.
The symptoms of this disease can vary from patient to patient. Those with chronic lung conditions are most likely to be impacted negatively by this disease. Symptoms of NTM include:
NTM lung disease is caused by breathing in air that has bacteria in it. The bacteria that cause this disease can also be present in mist that is floating in the air. The bacteria will invade the lungs, and this results in inflammation of the airways. There are 120 types of bacteria that can cause NTM lung disease.
Risk factors for NTM Disease are:
Diagnosis of NTM lung disease can be complicated because the symptoms of this condition are very much like many other diseases that involve the lungs. Diagnosis can be delayed for years in some cases.
The first step of the diagnosis process is for your doctor to take a complete health history. They will also do a physical exam and collect information about your symptoms. Other tests which can be done to diagnose NTM lung infection are:
These tests are done to get an image of the lungs and to see if the lungs are inflamed or have been damaged or scarred.
This is done by taking a sample of the fluid that has been coughed up by a patient and testing it for the presence of the bacteria that can cause NTM lung disease. This test will be confirmed again a few days later to be sure that the first results were accurate.
The goal of diagnosis is to identify which of the 120 bacteria types is causing your infection in order to provide a targeted treatment.
The best way to prevent NTM lung disease is to quit smoking and be sure to establish a treatment regimen if you have an existing lung condition. Reducing exposure to lung irritants of other kinds can also help you to avoid getting NTM lung disease.
Treatment of NTM lung disease can vary from patient to patient. The severity of the symptoms can dictate the course of treatment. It can be hard to get rid of this condition once you have contracted it, and it may require lifelong management in some cases. Treatment options can include:
NTM lung disease treatment is most effective when the exact bacteria that is causing the infection has been identified. This can require a commitment on the part of the patient to repeated testing until the correct diagnosis has been made.