Hello,
I am not sure if this is helpful, but it's one person's experience with the cavitties. I have cavitary MAC, but my only symptom is shortness of breath on staircase and other activities like that. Since 2015 when I had one cavity (and was first diagnosed), I received the three typical antibiotics which helped a little, lessening some of the nodules. In 2018, I was no longer receiving the anti-biotics because Arikayce was recommended, which I did not do because I thought it caused deafness, and I couldn't find out that much about the deafness (as a progression or if it went away, or if there was also tinnitus, etc.)

My lungs are worsening based on the CT scan, and I show positive for the sputum. There are more nodules in some new places, and I now have 3 cavities. I know much less than many of you since my doctor never said much about the illness, and I didn't realize how variable it is, so I didn't do my own due diligence to learn more.

I am now leaning toward the amikacin nebulized (with the antibiotics that go with) as a treatment option, but am confused why I don't have more symptoms, and fear losing my hearing. I am 64. Because I also have Gerd and brochiectasis, I am concerned that inhaling through the nebulizer will really bother my breathing. I have some time to decide, according to the doctor who gave me a second opinion. Any insight welcome, and I hope I have helped those of you on a similar path. My second doctor said this illness can continue to develop slowly, or worsen more significantly, or even improve. She insists they don't know enough to determine that.