Mycobacterium avium-complex (MAC, MAI, non-HIV)

Christopher J. Hoffmann, M.D., M.P.H.
Mycobacterium avium-complex (MAC, MAI, non-HIV) is a topic covered in the Johns Hopkins ABX Guide.

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MICROBIOLOGY

  • M. avium and M. intracellulare: slow-growing mycobacteria (10-21 days on solid media), often referred to as MAI complex.
    • M. intracellulare: principally causes pulmonary disease.
    • M. avium: more likely to cause disseminated disease (among immunocompromised people).
    • M chimaera and several other sub-spp. also fits within MAC (see separate module).
  • Environmental sources, especially water, are the reservoir for most human infections.

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MICROBIOLOGY

  • M. avium and M. intracellulare: slow-growing mycobacteria (10-21 days on solid media), often referred to as MAI complex.
    • M. intracellulare: principally causes pulmonary disease.
    • M. avium: more likely to cause disseminated disease (among immunocompromised people).
    • M chimaera and several other sub-spp. also fits within MAC (see separate module).
  • Environmental sources, especially water, are the reservoir for most human infections.

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Last updated: November 7, 2020