Nontuberculous mycobacteria, or NTM, are made up of almost 200 different naturally-occurring organism species found in natural sources, such as the soil and water. While most don’t pose any threat to human health, these bacteria may cause issues in certain individuals prone to specific risk factors (i.e., lowered immunity).

NTM develops as an infection of the lungs, infiltrating the airways and causing disease and inflammation to take root in the respiratory system and within the tissues of the lungs. Symptoms of NTM may include:

• Wheezing
• Mild fever
• Sudden weight loss
• Chronic cough
• Night sweats
• Unexplained fatigue
• Breathing issues
• Coughing blood
• Shortness of breath

While many patients can get over NTM on their own, in severe cases, patients may be treated with a 12-month dose of antibiotics. NTM left untreated may lead to a lingering and progressive infection that destroys the lung tissues, and leads to worsening disease and even death. Common causes, or risk factors for NTM include:

1. Environmental exposure
Long-term exposure to certain toxic elements (i.e., soil, water from pools and hot tubs) within the environment can open susceptibility to infections, like NTM.

2. Compromised immunity
Weakened immunity due to an unrelated yet chronic condition may increase the risk of NTM lung infection (i.e., rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s disease, HIV/AIDs, or those taking prednisone).

3. Age, gender and ethnicity
Chronic infections are found more in older individuals with lower immunity. NTM is also more common in Caucasian females who with slim or slight frames.

4. Esophageal conditions
Patient with existing esophageal conditions are considered more prone to NTM. For instance, patients with acid reflux disease (GERD) are at increased risk due to overflow of gastric juices via the lungs.

5. Existing lung disease
Patients with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, and damaged lungs are also considered at higher risk of developing NTM.