District 10 Recap – September 27, 2019

POMA District 10 gathered on Friday, September 27, 2019 for their monthly event at the Blue Bell Inn in Blue Bell, PA. The group enjoyed a lecture about Mycobacterium Avium Complex (MAC) Lung Disease by Gary Aaronson, DO.

Notes: Dr. Aaronson discussed the background on MAC, diagnosis and treatment.

  • NTM are ubiquitous organisms found in water and soil. They attach to pipes, especially in coastal areas and create biofilms
  • There are 75,000-105,000 cases in the US
  • Prevalence is increasing 8% per year
  • There are over 200 NTM organisms, MAC is the most common
  • It results in a chronic progressive infection. The organisms infect macrophages and create a biofilm inside. Multiple antibiotics over a prolonged period are required to irradiate it
  • Diagnosis involves clinical history imaging, and microbiologic cultures
  • Once diagnosed, patients should get a baseline audiology and eye exam

The next District 10 gathering will be on Friday, November 15, 2019 at the Blue Bell Inn in Blue Bell, PA. We look forward to seeing you then.