Does MAC lung disease relapse even after treatment?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 67 and was diagnosed with MAC lung disease after a chest CT showed cylindrical bronchiectasis and nodules in the right middle lobe. My sputum culture was positive for Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare complex on two occasions, and the AFB smear was 2+. I have been started on Azithromycin, Rifampin, and Ethambutol, but I feel drained and recently had mild blurred vision. How long is therapy usually continued? What labs or monitoring, like liver enzymes or visual testing, do I need monthly? Can MAC relapse even after treatment is done?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease typically involves a combination of antibiotics, administered for at least 12 months after sputum cultures convert to negative. The exact duration can vary, but it generally extends for 12 to 18 months, with some cases requiring longer treatment periods. Regular monitoring with blood work and sputum samples is also crucial during treatment.

In MAC (Mycobacterium avium complex) lung disease, monthly laboratory tests generally include a complete blood count (CBC), a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to assess kidney and liver function, and sputum cultures to monitor for the presence of MAC bacteria. Additionally, some patients may require regular visual tests, such as eye exams, to monitor for any potential side effects from medications used to treat MAC.

So, always follow up regularly and carefully monitor eye problems or any other complications arising from it. Talk to your doctor.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.