Prevalence, risk factors and prognosis of nontuberculous mycobacterial infection among people with bronchiectasis: a population survey

The incidence of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection among people with bronchiectasis varies between different geographical areas and accordingly between different series [1, 2]. Studies are largely based on bronchiectasis referral centres, which routinely screen for NTM in respiratory secretions. Therefore, the reported estimates of NTM prevalence in bronchiectasis may be exaggerated. Studies from bronchiectasis centres show conflicting results regarding risk factors for NTM: older age was found to increase risk in some but not other centres [1–4]. Due to the small numbers of patients in these studies, it is usually not possible to determine the effect of NTM infection on prognosis. Culture of NTM from people with bronchiectasis is negatively associated with smoking and low socioeconomic status <http://ow.ly/E3jR30j553X> This work was presented at the second World Bronchiectasis Conference in July 2017 (Milan, Italy).