Inhaled steroids may increase risk of nontuberculous mycobacteria lung disease

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-05/ats-ism050916.php

Public Release: 18-May-2016
Inhaled steroids may increase risk of nontuberculous mycobacteria lung disease
American Thoracic Society

Patients with obstructive lung disease who take inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) may be at greater risk for nontuberculous mycobacteria pulmonary disease (NTM PD), according to new research presented at the ATS 2016 International Conference.

•••••

Among current ICS users, researchers in the current study found a statistically significant increase in NTM of:

84 percent among all obstructive lung disease patients
210 percent among those with COPD only
55 percent among those who had both COPD and asthma

The researchers adjusted all results for potential confounders, including comorbidities, age, rurality of their residence and medications associated with NTM, such as anti-rheumatism drugs.

•••••