MYCOBACTERIUM AVIUM-INTRACELLULARE IN SLE

Intestinal infection caused by Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare is seen more frequently in immunocompromised patients, particularly those receiving corticosteroids and those with AIDS. The diagnosis should be considered in immunocompromised patients who develop abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, or malabsorption. Initial treatment with multiple antimycobacterial agents is often unsuccessful. Operative management occasionally may be helpful in the palliation of intractable symptoms.