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@migizii I have a question and wonder if someone is able to offer some insight. I see my pulmonologist yearly and my bronchiectasis has been stable (no exacerbations). However, he has not ordered a sputum test for the past two years and my CT scan states atypical microbacterial infection noted (as in previous scan). Obviously, I wasn’t aware enough to know what was going on - so I didn’t ask about it at my appointment. I continue to feel okay, but your comment about losing lung function has me concerned. Anyone think I need to pursue this?
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Hmmm...I think the fact there is no exacerbation and you feel okay means that even if you are MAC positive, there would be a tendency to not treat.
I am MAC positive (at least I was in December) but without symptoms so my antibiotics were discontinued after 18 months. My ID doc, who consults regularly with NJH, says he reserves the antibiotic therapy as his "big gun" because 1) it is very hard on the body & psyche, and 2) he is afraid of building resistance to the meds. My pulmonologist, who agreed with stopping the meds, will see me soon, and told me via message this week that we will only do a culture or CT if I get serious symptoms again. Otherwise to just assume the MAC is still there, and keep doing what works.
I rely on 7% saline, airway clearance & exercise to keep me healthy and my lungs strong. After 8 months, even in the worst part of my usual asthma/allergy season, I am doing OK so far.
Sue
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@migizii The mere fact that you have an atypical mycobacterium infection might have prompted your pulmonologist to recommend you see an infectious disease doctor. irene5