They have found no difference in the risk of PW according to the ART regimen used. Thus, most of the recommendations given are his opinion, based on his clinical experience and that of many others. Due to the low number of organisms, single drug therapy is acceptable. Recommended treatment duration is 3-6 months. For less severe disease, the oral agents can be given without prior parenteral therapy.
Susceptibilities are essential in guiding management.
Although most isolates are resistant, doxycycline and the quinolones may also be considered. For less severe disease, oral agents can be given without prior parenteral therapy. True cephalosporins have no activity. For lesser disease, po clarithromycin can be considered for 4-6 months. M. abscessus lung disease is incurable unless it is removed surgically.