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Unusual Cases — Mycobacterium Marinum Infection of the Skin |
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 This male presented to our office with a purple rash on his hand and forearm. He states that the rash is not itching or painful and no one else at home has the rash. Upon further questioning by Dr. Badia, the patient did state that the only thing he had done differently in the past few weeks was clean his fish tank.
What caused these dark patches on this patient’s arms? Mycobacterium Marinum Infection of the Skin.
Mycobacterium marinum is a bacterium that is found in salt and fresh water. Infection with this bacterium occurs when there is a slight abrasion or trauma to the skin, and that skin gets exposed to salt water, an aquarium or marine animals such as turtles. Therefore, people most at risk for developing this type of infection are oyster workers, aquarium workers, swimmers and people with home aquariums. Infection with Mycobacterium marinum almost always occurs on the upper extremities and hands. Patients generally notice purple nodules or bumps on the upper arm or hand a few days after exposure to salt or fresh water. If this infection is left untreated the lesions can ulcerate and can even mimic arthritis pain.
The best way to diagnose this condition is by clinical suspension and a bacterial culture. A bacterial culture is done by swabbing the infected area and placing it in a culture media for testing. Treatment generally consists of a course of antibiotic therapy. Most conditions will resolve within a few weeks. The best way to prevent infection with this bacterium is to always wear gloves when cleaning fish tanks and aquariums. Those who work in salt water should take precautions to avoid abrasions and trauma from marine animals.
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