The full form of NTM is Non-tuberculous mycobacteria.
Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a group of bacteria that are known to cause rare lung infections. According to the provided reference, these infections particularly affect individuals with pre-existing lung damage or compromised immune systems. These conditions are often referred to as NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD). The reference specifically notes:
"Non-tuberculous mycobacteria, or NTM, are a group of bacteria that cause rare lung infections. NTM mainly affects people who have damaged lungs or who have a problem with their immune system. These infections are sometimes known as NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD).01-Feb-2022"
Here is a summary of what NTM entails:
- NTM stands for Non-tuberculous mycobacteria.
- These are bacteria that can cause lung infections.
- Individuals with damaged lungs or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to these infections.
- NTM infections are sometimes called NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD).
In simple terms, NTM refers to a specific group of bacteria that are not related to tuberculosis but can cause similar lung infections.