How often should I be tested for MAC

Posted by picartist @picartist, 5 days ago

I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis last July, 2024 and at the time the doctor did a lung lavage and started a culture for infections. After a couple of weeks he told he I did not have any infections and he was happy about that, said I avoided antibiotics taking for a year or so. My question now is how often should cultures like that be run? I have not had any since last July. My mucus color is either light yellow or light green and frankly, it is lighter than before I started saline, etc.

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Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | 5 days ago

@picartist I asked my pulmonologist because I have been "apparently " MAC free for several years. She said she wants a specimen every couple years unless every couple years unless I develop symptoms of infection, including fever, weight loss, worsened coughing, fatigue, then I am to submit a specimen ASAP (I have a standing order at the lab and cups st home.)

According to her, sputum colors alone don't always indicate infection - but sudden changes from clear to green, transparent to opaque or viscous to very sticky should be reported.