MAC Lung Disease FAQs

Question 1

What is MAC lung disease?

Accepted Answer

MAC lung disease is a serious lung infection caused by Mycobacterium avium complex, the most common form of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) bacteria.

Question 2

What is Mycobacterium?

Accepted Answer

Mycobacterium is a type of bacteria that can cause a variety of infections, including tuberculosis and MAC lung disease.

Question 3

What is the difference between NTM and MAC?

Accepted Answer

NTM is the name of a large group of mycobacteria. MAC is one type of NTM and is the most common cause of NTM lung disease in the United States.

Question 4

How is MAC lung disease different from tuberculosis?

Accepted Answer

Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, while MAC lung disease is caused by MAC, a type of NTM. Unlike tuberculosis, MAC lung disease usually does not spread from person to person.

Question 5

What causes MAC lung disease, and how do people get it?

Accepted Answer

MAC lung disease is caused by bacteria that naturally live in soil, dust and water. People usually get it from the environment rather than from another person.

Question 6

What are the symptoms of MAC lung disease?

Accepted Answer

People with MAC lung disease can experience chronic cough, shortness of breath and fatigue, although some people may have no symptoms.

Question 7

How is MAC lung disease diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Testing for MAC lung disease usually starts with a sputum test. Doctors may also use a chest X-ray, CT scan or bronchoscopy to help confirm the diagnosis.

Question 8

How is a sputum test done?

Accepted Answer

Sputum is collected by coughing up mucus. The sample is sent to a laboratory and analyzed for MAC lung disease bacteria.

Question 9

How is MAC lung disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment may involve airway clearance techniques, antibiotics and, in rare cases, surgery. Treatment plans are tailored to individual patient needs.

Question 10

What lifestyle changes can support MAC lung disease treatment?

Accepted Answer

Lifestyle changes may include airway clearance, staying active, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and lung irritants, and reducing exposure to environmental bacteria sources.

Question 11

What happens if MAC lung disease does not respond to treatment?

Accepted Answer

Doctors may repeat testing, review medications or adjust the treatment plan if MAC lung disease does not respond to treatment.

Question 12

Where can I find support resources for MAC lung disease?

Accepted Answer

Support resources and patient communities are available for people living with MAC lung disease.

Frequently asked questions about MAC lung disease