CT features of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection: effects of underlying pulmonary disease.

The CT findings of 50 cases of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection (NMI) were evaluated by dividing patients into two clinical groups: group 1, with no history of pulmonary disease (n=34), and group 2, with underlying pulmonary disease (n=16), and observing serial CT images. Bronchiectasis, irregular opacity, and small nodule were common findings and were concomitantly seen in 80% of cases in both groups. In group 1, small nodule, peripheral bronchiectasis, and irregular opacity with bronchiectasis in the middle lobes were common findings. On the other hand, irregular opacity with cavity in the upper lobes was a common CT finding in group 2. Irregular opacity was a more frequent finding of NMI than previously reported and might be seen as the sole manifestation of NMI, especially in group 2 patients. Serial CT studies showed frequent changes in small nodule and irregular opacity. Irregular opacity with cavity tended to progress, whereas irregular opacity without bronchiectasis or cavity may or may not improve.