[Disseminated Mycobacterium chelonae infection during HIV. ].

INTRODUCTION

An atypical mycobacterium, Mycobacterium chelonae is a saprophyte germ in the environment, but rarely pathogenic. A few disseminated infections can be noted in immunodepressed patients.

OBSERVATION: A 30 year-old man infected by HIV was hospitalised for deterioration in his general status of health with, on clinical examination, pallor, several superficial lymph nodes and hepatosplenomegaly. A biopsy of an axillary node and the liver revealed numerous granulomas with many atypical M. chelonae-like mycobacteria. Adapted treatment led to complete remission.

DISCUSSION: Immunodepression facilitates the occurrence of M. chelonae infections, often of severe evolution and leading to dissemination. This mycobacterium is resistant to many antibiotics.