News Excerpt:

Scientists have isolated an antibacterial compound that can kill Mycobacterium abscessus, a relative of the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, without generating any signs of bacterial drug resistance in infected mice. 

Key highlights of the study:

• The safety profile and efficacy suggest that it can be used for treating people infected with M. abscessus, which is very hardy and frequently shrugs off standard antibiotic protocols. 
• M. abscessus is growing more common worldwide and can cause severe lung infections.

About Mycobacterium abscessus:

• Mycobacterium abscessus (also called M. abscessus) is a bacterium distantly related to the ones that cause tuberculosis and Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy). 
• It is part of a group of environmental mycobacteria and is found in water, soil, and dust. 
• It has been known to contaminate medications and products, including medical devices.
• Healthcare-associated infections due to this bacterium usually occur in the skin and the soft tissues under the skin. 
• Skin infected with M. abscessus is usually red, warm, tender to the touch, swollen, and/or painful.
• It is also a cause of serious lung infections in persons with various chronic lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis.