[Pathogenicity of atypical mycobacteria].

Human diseases caused by atypical mycobacteria are reviewed. Pulmonary illness and childrens' lymphadenitis are the commonest, but cutaneous, disseminated, bony, articular, renal and meningeal diseases are also produced by atypical mycobacteria. Disseminated infections are often manifested by fever, hepato-splenomegaly and hematologic changes. Most diagnosis are made by sputum and gastric-juice cultures, bonemarrow and liver biopsies. Disseminated diseases are often fatal but may be cured with medical treatment. In general, atypical mycobacterial diseases are quite similar to tuberculous diseases in different organs. A unique isolation of atypical mycobacteria is not diagnostic "by it self", and other conditions are required. Diagnostic criteria and treatment are discussed.