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Difference between MAC and NTM
I've heard many people refer to the term "MAC" when they talk about NTM. What is MAC? What's the difference between MAC and NTM?
Replies
NTM and MAC are acronyms for the following: Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) and Mycobacteria Avium Complex.
NTM refers to all species in the Mycobacteria family that can cause disease in humans but does not cause Tuberculosis, which is contagious.
MAC is a specific bacteria in the family of NTM and one of the most common to be diagnosed.
MAC is often used to refer to NTM but not always accurate because there are over 150 species. Let me know if that helps.
Laura
Comments
Hi Delia,
Other species (and sub-species) of NTM that are known to cause infections in people include M. abscessus, M. kansasii, M. fortuitum, M. chelonae, M. chimaera, and intracellulare (which is a sub-species of M. avium).
Hope that helps!
Amy
Comments
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