Yale School of Medicine
Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine

Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine
300 George St. Ste. 773
New Haven, CT 06511
Tel: 203.785.5816
Fax: 203.785.4327
yjbm@yale.edu

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Mycobacterium chelonae

Mycobacterium chelonae is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in soil. Especially in immune-compromised patients, it often causes would infections following surgery or trauma. These frequently present as non-healing skin ulcers, which can progress to severe cellulitis. Case reports describe clarithromycin as an effective treatment, though it is sometimes necessary to add an aminoglycoside or a quinolone in case of resistance. Like many other Mycobacterium species, it is difficult to eradicate and may require up to six months of antibiotic therapy.