Skin infections caused by Mycobacterium chelonae: Underestimated, especially in immunocompromised patients

Abstract

Mycobacterium chelonae infections are rare but significant in immuno-compromised patients, often leading to delayed diagnosis due to a specific clinical signs and the difficulty to culture and identify the causative agent with conventional laboratory techniques. We report a case series of five patients presenting with cutaneous infection due to M. chelonae. An extensive review of the literature was accomplished to provide summary data on the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods and treatment options for these infections.