Objective:

To report a case of disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection in a patient with anti–interferon-γ autoantibody-associated adult-onset immunodeficiency and to review existing literature on this condition.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• The patient, a 53-year-old Chinese man, had disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection that mimicked lung cancer with bone metastases.
• Repeated pathological examinations failed to confirm malignancy, leading to a delayed diagnosis.
• Elevated anti–IFN-γ autoantibodies were identified, supporting the diagnosis of AIGA-associated infection.

Interpretation:

Disseminated Mycobacterium kansasii infection can closely resemble malignancy in imaging studies, complicating diagnosis.

Limitations:

• The case highlights the challenge of diagnosing disseminated NTM infections in patients without previously recognized immunodeficiency.
• The reliance on advanced diagnostic techniques may not be feasible in all clinical settings.

Conclusion:

Early integration of pathogen detection and anti–IFN-γ autoantibody testing is crucial in cases with tumor-like lesions and nondiagnostic pathology.

Attribution Notice

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