Sources, transmission and hospital-associated outbreaks of nontuberculous mycobacteria: a review
Creators: name: Abbas, Munawar
name: Khan, Muhammad Tahir
name: Iqbal, Zafar
name: Ali, Arif
name: Eddine, Benarfa Taki
name: Yousaf, Numan
name: Wei, Dongqing
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2024
Subjects: subject: Space Science
subject: Biotechnology
subject: Environmental Sciences not elsewhere classified
subject: Ecology
subject: FOS: Biological sciences
subject: Immunology
subject: FOS: Clinical medicine
subject: Biological Sciences not elsewhere classified
subject: Infectious Diseases
subject: FOS: Health sciences
subject: Computational Biology

description: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are widespread environmental organisms found in both natural and man-made settings, such as building plumbing, water distribution networks and hospital water systems. Their ubiquitous presence increases the risk of transmission, leading to a wide range of human infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. NTM primarily spreads through environmental exposures, such as inhaling aerosolized particles, ingesting contaminated food and introducing it into wounds. Hospital-associated outbreaks have been linked to contaminated medical devices and water systems. Furthermore, the rising global incidence, prevalence and isolation rates highlight the urgency of addressing NTM infections. Gaining a thorough insight into the sources and epidemiology of NTM infection is crucial for devising novel strategies to prevent and manage NTM transmission and infections. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental pathogens affecting humans and animals, with a substantial public health impact. These bacteria have been frequently identified in various natural and human-engineered settings, contributing to their potential transmission. Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous and frequently identified in various settings, including building plumbing, water distribution networks, water treatment plants and hospital water systems, contributing to their potential transmission. The incidence, isolation, and prevalence rates of nontuberculous NTM infections are increasing worldwide, posing a significant public health challenge. NTM incidence, isolation and prevalence rates vary regionally and are influenced by geographic location, climate, population demographics and healthcare practices. The main routes of NTM transmission are inhalation, ingestion and introduction into wounds. Inhalation of aerosolized NTM from showerheads is broadly suggested as an essential route of NTM transmission. NTM have high cell surface hydrophobicity; therefore, NTM can form biofilms in their native environments. Biofilm created within healthcare facilities plays a vital role in NTM pathogenesis and is more prevalent on municipal water systems and plumbing pipes in hospital premises. NTM transmission in healthcare happens through aerosols or fomites. The hospital's water distribution system has the potential to act as a reservoir of NTM. NTM contaminates hospital equipment and potentially produces nosocomial outbreaks and pseudo-outbreaks. Improvement in pathways and mechanisms of environmental transmission is needed. The usage of greater-degree water filters in the home can help lower NTM levels. Need distinctive biomarkers essential for the early diagnosis and monitoring of NTM. Advancements in drug development can reduce resistance and improve the treatment.