The diagnosis of two cases of cutaneous ulcer caused by infection with <i>Mycobacterium haemophilum</i>: direct identification in a clinical sample by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction endonuclease analysis

Abstract

Dermatologists should consider this bacterium in immunocompromised patients with cutaneous ulcerating lesions. Material from the lesions can be screened for mycobacteria using an acid-fast stain and, if acid-fast bacilli are seen, PCR analysis of mycobacterial hsp65 can be an effective tool for early diagnosis. Appropriate culture methods are required for bacteriologic confirmation of infection with M. haemophilum.