Treatment and prophylaxis of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex in HIV-infected individuals.

OBJECTIVE

To review the pathophysiology, epidemiology, treatment, and prophylaxis of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection in HIV-infected individuals.

DATA SOURCES

A MEDLINE (January 1966-July 1997) and AIDSLINE (January 1980-July 1997) search of basic science articles pertinent to the MAC infection in HIV-infected patients.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

All articles were considered for possible inclusion in the review. Pertinent information, as judged by the authors, was selected for discussion.

DATA SYNTHESIS

The organism, epidemiology, and pathophysiology of disseminated MAC are discussed for background. A review of clinical trials for the treatment and prophylaxis of disseminated MAC are presented, along with unresolved issues concerning these topics.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of disseminated MAC has increased dramatically with the AIDS epidemic. The infection can lead to increased morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected patients. Treatment regimens for patients with a positive culture for MAC from a sterile site should include two or more drugs, including clarithromycin. Prophylaxis against disseminated MAC should be considered for patients with a CD4 cell count of less than 50/mm3.