A case of subcutaneous abscess with Mycobacteria chelonae infection

Abstract

We describe localized subcutaneous abscesses on the right axilla of a 34-year-old woman due to M. chelonae infection in the previous incision and drainage site. The infection responded to treatment with anti-Tb medication. Mycobacterium chelonae is one of the rapidly growing atypical mycobacteria, belonging to Runyon group IV, which is ubiquitous in the environment. Primary cutaneous infections have been described after skin injury in immunocompetent patients and produce chronic nodule or draining abscesses. Disseminated infections have been reported in immunocompromised patients.