{Reference Type}: Meta-Analysis
{Title}: Prevalence and Characteristics of Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) Infection in Recipients of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
{Author}: Cinicola BL;Ottaviano G;Hashim IF;Zainudeen ZT;Hamid IJA;Elfeky R;
{Journal}: J Clin Immunol
{Volume}: 44
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2023 12 22
{Factor}: 8.542
{DOI}: 10.1007/s10875-023-01615-3
{Abstract}: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Here, we aimed to review and analyze current literature on incidence, clinical presentation, and outcome of NTM infection after allogeneic HSCT.<BR>We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature regarding NTM infection in children and adults receiving allogeneic HSCT.<BR>We identified 56 articles eligible for the analysis. Among 15 studies, describing 15,798 allogeneic HSCT, we estimated a prevalence of 1.26% (95% CI 0.72, 1.93) of NTM after transplant. Analysis of 175 patients with NTM infection showed a median time of diagnosis of 318 days after HSCT, an increased prevalence in adults (82.9%), and a most frequent pulmonary involvement (44%). Comparison between children and adults revealed an earlier post-transplant disease onset (median 130 days vs 287 days) and most frequent non-pulmonary presentation in children. A vast heterogeneity of therapeutic approach reflected the lack of universal recommendations regarding drug combination and duration of therapy. Overall, NTM-related mortality accounted for 33% in this systematic review.<BR>Although rare, NTM infections can complicate post-transplant course with a high mortality rate in children and adults. The lack of prospective studies and guidelines prevents identification of risk factors and therapeutic recommendations.