NTM/MOTT Slow Grower Antibiogram Test
NTM/MOTT Slow Grower Antibiogram Test
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM), also referred to as Mycobacteria Other Than Tuberculosis (MOTT), are a diverse group of environmental mycobacteria that can cause pulmonary and extrapulmonary infections. The NTM/MOTT Slow Grower Antibiogram Test is used to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of slow-growing NTM species, aiding in the selection of effective treatment regimens for infected patients.
Unlike Mycobacterium tuberculosis, NTMs are opportunistic pathogens that can cause chronic lung infections, lymphadenitis, skin infections, and disseminated diseases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Due to intrinsic and acquired antibiotic resistance, susceptibility testing is crucial for guiding appropriate therapy.
What is the NTM/MOTT Slow Grower Antibiogram Test Used For?
This test is used to:
- Determine antibiotic susceptibility patterns of slow-growing NTMs.
- Guide effective treatment decisions for infections caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Mycobacterium kansasii, Mycobacterium marinum, Mycobacterium ulcerans, and other slow-growing NTMs.
- Monitor antimicrobial resistance trends in mycobacterial infections.
- Assist in personalized therapy, particularly in cases of refractory or multidrug-resistant NTM infections.
Symptoms of NTM Infections
NTM infections can affect the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and bloodstream, with symptoms varying based on the site of infection.
Chronic cough (with or without mucus)
Fatigue & weakness
Shortness of breath
Unexplained weight loss
Fever & night sweats
Non-healing wounds or abscesses
Swelling & redness
Ulceration or nodules
Swollen, painless lymph nodes (usually in the neck)
Preparation for the Test
A clinical sample (sputum, bronchial wash, wound swab, or tissue biopsy) is required. Ensure proper specimen collection and transport to avoid contamination. Inform your healthcare provider about prior antibiotic treatments, as this may influence resistance patterns.
Interpretation of Results
- Susceptible: The NTM strain is responsive to the tested antibiotic, suggesting effective treatment.
- Intermediate: The antibiotic may have limited effectiveness; higher doses or combination therapy may be required.
- Resistant: The strain is not affected by the antibiotic, necessitating an alternative treatment approach.
FAQs
Why is an antibiogram important for NTM infections?
NTM species exhibit variable resistance to standard anti-tubercular drugs, making individualized susceptibility testing essential for proper treatment.
How long does the test take?
Slow-growing NTMs require several weeks (4-8 weeks) for culture and susceptibility results.
What antibiotics are commonly tested?
Drugs tested include clarithromycin, azithromycin, rifampin, ethambutol, amikacin, moxifloxacin, and linezolid, depending on the NTM species.
Can NTM infections be cured?
Yes, but treatment often requires multiple antibiotics over an extended period (6-12 months or more).
Who should be tested?
Patients with chronic lung infections, recurrent NTM infections, or immunocompromised individuals with suspected disseminated disease should undergo susceptibility testing.
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