Mycobacteria
Mycobacterium is a genus of bacteria with more than 190 recognized species. This rod-shaped bacteria can cause severe disease in animals and humans – including tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis complex) and leprosy (M. leprae). Many Mycobacterium species reside in diverse environments, existing as environmental opportunistic pathogens.
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are organisms within the Mycobacterium genus that do not cause tuberculosis (TB) or leprosy. Unlike tuberculosis, NTM infections most often originate from the environment rather than person-to-person transmission. Most NTMs do not cause illness; however, immunocompromised individuals - particularly those with lung conditions are vulnerable to NTM infection. The most common NTM infection in humans is caused by M. avium complex. NTM are often resistant to common antibiotic treatments making treatment challenging. There remain many gaps in our understanding of NTM infection, the variability of disease and even the prevalence of NTM infections.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that primarily affects the lungs and is often associated with severe symptoms. Latent TB is the existence of a TB infection with no symptoms due to inactive bacteria. Latent TB can progress into TB disease – an active condition that is contagious and threatens the health of the individual and community. From sanatoriums to the BCG vaccine and streptomycin, we have made many advancements in the treatments available over the last 100 years. Currently, there are standardized treatments for both active and inactive TB that are antimicrobial susceptible.
Despite the advancements that have been made, TB is still a worldwide public health concern. The emergence of drug-resistant TB has created difficulties for healthcare professionals when treating these strains. TB is more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries and in communities where there is a high poverty index. TB has a more considerable impact on marginalized groups due to social determinants impacting their health outcomes. Many healthcare systems are inadequately equipped to deal with outbreaks due to societal and economic conditions. Drug-resistant TB and the prevalence of TB in areas with people living in poverty demonstrate the health threats imposed by infectious diseases and the impacts on the healthcare system.
Pediatric TB patients in British Columbia (2005-2014). (A) Summary of acquisition and travel history; (B) stratification of birthplace and source of transmission. (Figure 2. Guthrie et al. 2018)