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The term “mycobacteriosis” encompasses a variety of infectious diseases of animals caused by bacteria of the genus Mycobacterium, which are chronic and debilitating diseases. More than 35 Mycobacterium spp can cause mycobacteriosis. The wide range of possible clinical signs and physical exam findings can make the antemortem diagnosis inconsistent and challenging. Proper sample collection and test modality in relation to the state of the disease process are essential. Clinicians can determine a presumptive diagnosis of mycobacteriosis, but the definitive etiologic diagnosis of mycobacteriosis relies on the correct identification of the mycobacteria through microbiological and molecular diagnostic methods.

Treatment for avian mycobacteriosis is still in its infancy and based on extrapolations from human medicine. The optimum drug choice, dose, or length of treatment has yet to be determined for most exotic animal species. Treatment should include multiple drugs for extended periods of time with appropriate monitoring of both drug levels and overall animal health. Risk to owners and handlers needs to be minimized through appropriate identification of the species of mycobacteri causing disease. More research is necessary on the pharmacokinetics of these drugs in other animal species and antibiotic resistance. Currently, euthanasia remains the most common action in the face of active mycobacteriosis.