Mycobacterium abscessus bacteremia: A narrative literature review based on a case report

Mycobacterium abscessus is a highly virulent nontuberculous mycobacterial complex (NTM) that frequently exhibits high-level antimicrobial resistance. Bacteremia is uncommon and occurs predominantly in immunocompromised patients. We report a catheter-associated bloodstream infection by M. abscessus subsp. massiliense , and review M. abscessus bacteremia published over the past 10 years. A PubMed search was conducted from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2025, using the terms “ M. abscessus bacteremia” and “ M. abscessus catheter infection and bacteremia”. Clinical, microbiological, therapeutic, and outcome variables were analyzed. 22 episodes of M. abscessus bacteremia were documented (ours included). The most frequent sources were catheter related infections (8 cases), skin and soft-tissue infection (4), surgical procedures (4) and underlying pulmonary disease (3). 86% of patients had underlying conditions considered risk factors for infection. Overall mortality was 31.8%. Amikacin, macrolides, and carbapenems were the most commonly used agents, with prolonged treatment durations and frequent regimen modifications due to resistance or toxicity. M. abscessus bacteremia is rare event with a significant mortality. Rapid microbiological identification and early initiation of appropriate empiric therapy are critical to improving outcomes.