Non-tuberculous mycobacterial cochlear implant infection: An emerging pathogen

Abstract

Objective and importance

To report one of the first cases of a cochlear implant infected by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), an emerging otologic pathogen.

Clinical presentation

We report the case of a 78-year-old woman who underwent uncomplicated cochlear implantation though subsequently developed wound dehiscence and device exposure. Tissue culture grew non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection with Mycobacterium abscessus.

Intervention

The device was explanted, the surgical bed debrided, and the patient was successfully treated with a prolonged course of oral and parenteral antibiotics. She elected not to undergo re-implantation.

Conclusion

Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections are being increasingly encountered and reported within the temporal bone. Although this is the first reported case of cochlear implant contamination with NTM, surgeons should be aware of this entity so that an appropriate treatment plan can be initiated.

Keywords:

• Non-tuberculous mycobacteria
• Cochlear implant
• Complication
• Infection
• Emerging pathogens
• Mycobacterium abscessus