Surgical treatment of pulmonary infections caused by atypical mycobacteria.

Pulmonary disease caused by atypical mycobacteria frequently constitutes an indication for operative treatment, since these bacteria are usually resistant to most forms of chemotherapy. Since 1968 11 patients having pulmonary infection caused by atypical mycobacteria underwent pulmonary resection. All patients, except one who had bilateral disease, left the hospital with negative sputum status. Pulmonary resection is an effective means of therapy for atypical mycobacterial pulmonary infection. Such treatment can be carried out with low morbidity and mortality, and is indicated in cases of poor response to drug treatment or persistent residual lesions.