•  
  •  

Mycobacterium Avium Complex

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is a group of bacteria, commonly found in soil or water, that can infect people who have acquired immunodeficiency disease (AIDS). In people whose CD4+ cell count drops below 50 cells per microliter (mcL), the bacteria can spread throughout the body and cause infection almost anywhere.

Symptoms include:

  • Night sweats.
  • Fever.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Fatigue.
  • Weight loss.
  • Belly pain.

There is no easy way to avoid exposure to Mycobacterium avium complex bacteria. But medicines are available that can prevent disease.

Last Revised: April 5, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.