Key points Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are bacteria found in soil, dust and water. Although anyone can get an NTM infection, some groups are at increased risk. Treatment varies and typically requires seeing a specialist.
We all breathe in NTM, but most people don’t get sick from them. NTM lung disease is more common in people with long-term lung conditions, like bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis.
NTM lung disease is caused by breathing in air or mist that has the bacteria in it. The bacteria get into your lung tissue and cause an infection. Your airways become inflamed. More than 120...
Nontuberculous mycobacteria are naturally occurring environmental pathogens which impact tens of thousands of people every year in the United States alone. NTM lung infection can cause or worsen significant respiratory damage, such as bronchiectasis.
NTM Info & Research | Support for NTM Lung Disease & Bronchiectasis
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) represent over 190 species and subspecies, some of which can produce disease in humans of all ages and can affect both pulmonary and extrapulmonary sites.
Learn about nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) lung infections—including risks, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments—at National Jewish Health.
For most people, the symptoms of NTM lung disease are similar to many other lung conditions. Because many people infected with NTM are already living with a chronic lung disease, it can be a challenge to recognize the symptoms of NTM lung disease as something new and different.
Learn about NTM infections — how they spread, symptoms to look for, treatment options, and prevention tips.