Impact of concomitant nontuberculous mycobacteria and isolates in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

PURPOSE

is associated with pulmonary function decline and high disease severity in non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis. The prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in non-CF bronchiectasis patients has increased recently. This study investigated the impact of NTM with or without isolates in non-CF bronchiectasis patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Our retrospective study included 96 non-CF bronchiectasis patients from January 2005 to December 2014. We recorded the presentation, exacerbations, emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalization, serial pulmonary function, radiologic studies, and sputum culture results. All patients were followed up for at least 2 years.

RESULTS

The 96 patients were divided into four groups: patients with concomitant negative NTM and isolates (n=41; group 1), patients with positive NTM isolates (n=20; group 2), patients with positive isolates (n=20; group 3), and patients with concomitant positive NTM and isolates (n=15; group 4). Compared with group 1 patients, patients in groups 2 and 3 showed a significant decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV). They also had more frequent annual acute exacerbations (AE), ED visits, and hospitalization. Group 4 patients had the greatest FEV and forced vital capacity (FVC) decline and the most frequent AE, ED visits, and hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant NTM and isolates in non-CF bronchiectasis are associated with the greatest pulmonary function decline and the worst disease severity. This result suggested that early recognition and prompt treatment of concomitant NTM and isolates may improve the outcome in non-CF bronchiectasis patients.