Mycobacterium Marinum Infection of the Skin in Japan

Based on several reviews in Japanese dermatological journals, seventy‐five cases of bacteriologically confirmed Mycobacterium marinum infection of the skin from 1969 through 1980 have been accumulated. These 75 cases accounted for 82% of all reported cases of atypical mycobacterial infections of the skin in Japan (1). The following features were noted: Approximately half of the cases were occupationally related to fish handling; the other half occurred among fish tank hobby enthusiasts. The clinical presentation usually suggested sporotrichosis, with the majority of the skin eruptions appearing on the hand and 96 % being unilateral. Minocycline is recommended as the drug of choice.