NCT00018044 · National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Study of Mycobacterial Infections
What this study is about
This study will examine the symptoms, course of disease and treatment of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, as well as the genetics involved in these infections. Patients with NTM have recurrent lung infections and sometimes infections of the skin and other organs as well. They may also have curvature of the spine, barrel chest, and heart valve weakness.
View original scientific description
This study will examine the symptoms, course of disease and treatment of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, as well as the genetics involved in these infections. Patients with NTM have recurrent lung infections and sometimes infections of the skin and other organs as well. They may also have curvature of the spine, barrel chest, and heart valve weakness. The study will compare the features of NTM with those of Job syndrome and cystic fibrosis, other diseases involving recurrent infections of the lungs and possibly other organs. Patients with diagnosed or suspected non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection, cystic fibrosis or Job syndrome may be eligible for this study. All participants will have a medical and family history, blood and urine tests, imaging studies that may include X-rays, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and DNA and other genetic studies. In addition, all patients with Job syndrome and cystic fibrosis, and patients with NTM who have lung disease undergo the following procedures: * Scoliosis survey X-rays of the spine to look for curvature or other abnormalities of the spinal column * Echocardiography imaging test that uses sound waves to examine the heart chambers and valves * Electrocardiogram measurement of the electrical activity of the heart * Pulmonary function tests breathing tests to measure how much air the patient can move into and out of the lungs * Body measurements measurements of height, weight, arm span, finger length, etc. * Joint function assessment of joint mobility using different maneuvers to test flexibility of joints and ligaments * Examination of physical features that might be associated with NTM, such as high arched palate of the mouth, flat feet, or certain skin features * Dermatology (skin) examination for reactive skin conditions or other skin problems and possibly a skin biopsy (surgical removal of a small skin tissue sample for microscopic examination) * Interview with genetics specialist These tests may require several days to complete. Patients with NTM will also be examined by a cystic fibrosis specialist and may have a sweat test. In addition, NTM patients will be asked to return to NIH every year for 5 years for follow-up tests, if medically indicated, including CT of the chest, scoliosis survey and examination by other specialists.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- FOR PATIENTS: This protocol will study patients with mycobacterial infections, including those without previously identified predisposing disease processes as well as individuals with underlying malignancies. Patients with nontuberculous mycobacterial infections will be of particular interest, as we are interested in isolating and characterizing the primary immune defect(s) responsible for this infection susceptibility. Select patients with acquired immunodeficiencies or tuberculosis may also be studied if relevant host defects are suspected. Patients must be referred to NIH with a diagnosis or suspicion of having mycobacterial infection. Male and female patients will be accepted without limitations due to age. Only patients with nontuberculous mycobacterial infections without HIV infection will be considered for long-term disease management. INCLUSION CRITERIA FOR RELATIVES: As part of this protocol, we may obtain medical records, blood work, urine, saliva or buccal swab from some blood relatives of patients on the study, with the hope of isolating and characterizing the primary immune defect(s) responsible for mycobacterial infection susceptibilityand if there are any genetic links seen within families. We hope to identify families with an apparent genetic susceptibility to respiratory diseases predominantly associated with P-NTM and perform whole genome sequencing within this group to identify genetic mutations accounting for this increased susceptibility. Male and female patients will be accepted without limitation due to age. These relatives will not receive treatment or have any other protocol procedures done unless they become a patient on the study.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations