Case of atypical cutaneous M ycobacterium chelonae infection in patient of systemic lupus erythematosus after cyclophosphamide therapy.

Mycobacterium c helonae is one of the rapidly growing non-tuberculous mycobacteria that can be isolated from water, soils and aerosols. Localised infections have been reported associated with tattoo parlours, pedicures and cosmetic procedures. But disseminated infection is usually associated with individuals who are immunocompromised, predominantly affecting limbs but sparing abdomen and back. We herein present a case where patient was on immunosuppressive therapy and developed locally severe infection around right ankle. A 69-year-old woman known to rheumatology presents in outpatients with severe pain in right ankle, unable to bear weight, oedematous right foot and lower leg. There was extensive erythematous cellulitic skin rash around right ankle and lower leg. She had background history of systemic lupus erythematosus with previous history of cardiac myositis and left foot drop. She had six cycles of cyclophosphamide for flare of lupus and after last cycle developed this presentation. Skin biopsy was arranged with dermatologist, cultures from which grew M . chelonae She was admitted and started on triple regimen for M . chelonae as per Microbiology guidelines with intention to complete 6-12 months treatment. Patient responded very well to treatment but unfortunately, she died after 5 months on treatment due to other comorbidities and likely cause of death was cardiac arrhythmia.