Abstract

Mycobacterium kansasii is an uncommon cause of infection of the hand. Other atypical mycobacteria that cause hand infections are M marinium, M avium, M intracellularis, and M chelonei. Such infections usually occur around aquatic areas, though sometimes the source of infection is elusive. Inoculation of the atypical mycobacterium into the host occurs usually from a traumatic break in the skin. Patients commonly report a history of fish tank cleaning, oyster shucking, swimming, or other aquatic activities. Several drug regimens have been suggested and used successfully. Surgical intervention is occasionally required for unresponsive or symptomatic cases. Concomitant hand infection and pulmonary tuberculosis is extremely rare. We present a case report of M kansasii infection of the hand and forearm, with carpal tunnel syndrome complicated by concomitant pulmonary M tuberculosis.