[Mycobacterium marinum nodular lymphangitis].

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium marinum has been recognized for some forty years. It generally occurs after trauma in a patient who manipulates tropical fish living in an aquarium.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of an exotic fish seller who developed M. marinum nodular lymphangitis after being bitten by one of the fish.

DISCUSSION

Nodular lesions occurring after trauma in subjects living in France who are in contact with exotic fish suggest the diagnosis of M. marinum. Nodular lymphangitis is seen in about 50% of the cases. Prolonged antibiotic therapy is required. Several antibiotics are effective including minocycline used in our case for 2 months after complete healing of the wound. Surgery is exceptionally required.