Mycobacterium smegmatis Skin Infection Following Cosmetic Procedures: Report of Two Cases

Mycobacterium smegmatis is an acid-fast bacillus of rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). M. smegmatis was considered nonpathogenic to humans until 1986, when the first patient was linked to the infection. To date, fewer than 100 cases have been reported in the literature, mainly related to various surgical procedures. Herein, we report two immunocompetent patients who acquired M. smegmatis infection following cosmetic procedures. Due to the rarity of M. smegmatis infection in routine clinical practice, it is challenging for medical providers to diagnose and treat patients with M. smegmatis infection. M. smegmatis infection should be considered for patients with chronic skin and soft tissue infections at the injection site or surgical site following cosmetic procedures. Histological findings, pathogen identification by molecular testing or bacterial culture are required to make a definitive diagnosis. Medical providers should raise awareness of M. smegmatis infection for patients with chronic skin and soft tissue infections after cosmetic procedures. Stringent sterile procedures for surgical instruments, supplies, and environments should be enforced.