Disseminated Cutaneous Infection Caused by Mycobacterium avium Complex

Abstract

To the Editor.— Mycobacterium avium complex is the most common cause of systemic bacterial infection in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, 1 as well as the most common organism associated with disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial infection. 2 Cutaneous involvement, although uncommon, is well documented. It has been reported as a primary process, as direct extension from underlying tissue, and as a manifestation of disseminated disease. We describe an unusual case of a previously healthy girl who developed widespread cutaneous lesions associated with osteomyelitis without apparent visceral involvement and in whom Mavium complex was isolated. Report of a Case.— An 11-year-old white girl was seen who was healthy and grew normally until the age of 2 years, when she had fractures of several metatarsal bones when her right foot was caught in a car door. Several weeks later, she developed swelling of the extremity, and, on removal of the cast, an ulcerated