Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Lung Disease synonyms

Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Lung Disease synonyms:

Nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease (NTM-LD) is a chronic respiratory condition caused by infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). NTM-LD is also known by several other names, including:

• Pulmonary NTM infection: This term specifically refers to the infection of the lungs by NTM. It highlights the primary site of infection and distinguishes it from other forms of NTM infection that may affect other parts of the body.


• Atypical mycobacterial lung disease: This term is used because NTM infections are caused by mycobacteria other than the well-known Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which causes tuberculosis. The term "atypical" is used to differentiate NTM from the more common tuberculosis infection.


• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease: MAC is a group of NTM species, including Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare, which are the most common causes of NTM-LD. This term specifically refers to NTM-LD caused by MAC species.


• Scrofula: Historically, NTM infections were sometimes referred to as scrofula, particularly when they caused lymph node swelling in the neck. However, this term is now considered outdated and is not commonly used.

It is important to note that while these terms are used interchangeably, they all refer to the same condition: chronic lung infection caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria. NTM-LD can be challenging to diagnose and treat, often requiring specialized medical care and long-term management.