Mycobacterium marseillense bloodstream infection combined with skin fungal infection: a case report and literature review

Abstract Background Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are present widely in the natural environment and can invade the human body through the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Immunocompromised patients are particularly prone to infection, which primarily affects multiple organs, including the lungs, lymph nodes, and skin. However, cases of NTM bloodstream infections are rare. Here, we report a rare case of Mycobacterium marseillense bloodstream infection with concurrent skin fungal infection in a patient after kidney transplantation. Related literature was reviewed to enhance the understanding of this rare condition. Case presentation A 58-year-old male with a history of long-term steroid and immunosuppressant use after kidney transplantation presented with limb swelling that worsened over the past two months. Physical examination revealed redness and swelling of the skin in all four limbs, with a non-healing wound on the lower left limb. Skin tissue analysis by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and fungal culture indicated infection with Trichophyton rubrum. Blood culture results suggested infection with Mycobacterium marseillense. After receiving anti-NTM treatment, the patient’s symptoms significantly improved, and he is currently undergoing treatment. Conclusion Mycobacterium marseillense is a NTM. Gram staining suffered from misdetection, and the acid-fast staining result was positive. This bacterium was identified by mass spectrometry and mNGS analyses. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests for NTM were performed using the broth microdilution method. The results of the susceptibility test showed that Mycobacterium marseillense was sensitive to clarithromycin, an intermediary between moxifloxacin and linezolid. Bacterial clearance requires a combination of drugs and an adequate course of treatment. NTM bloodstream infections are relatively rare, and early identification and proactive intervention are key to their successful management.