Which species is known for causing disseminated infections in immunocompromised patients?

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is often associated with disseminated infections, particularly in individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS or other conditions that significantly weaken the immune system. MAC encompasses two closely related species, Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare, which are prevalent in the environment and can be acquired through ingestion or inhalation.

In immunocompromised patients, these organisms can lead to systemic disease, characterized by fever, weight loss, and lymphadenopathy, among other symptoms. The likelihood of developing these infections increases as the immune status deteriorates, making MAC a significant concern in clinical microbiology and infectious disease management for vulnerable populations.

While Mycobacterium kansasii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis also pose risks to patients with weakened immune systems, they are generally associated with specific forms of disease; Mycobacterium kansasii primarily causes pulmonary infections similar to tuberculosis, while Mycobacterium tuberculosis is known primarily for causing tuberculosis, which can also disseminate but is characterized by different epidemiological and clinical patterns. Mycobacterium ulcerans is known for causing Buruli ulcer, primarily affecting skin tissue, and is less commonly associated with disseminated infections