Molecular Comparison of <i>Mycobacterium avium</i> Isolates from Clinical and Environmental Sources

Abstract

We collected Mycobacterium avium isolates from clinical and drinking-water sources and compared isolates among themselves and to each other using molecular methods. Four clinical isolates were related to water isolates. Groups of indistinguishable clinical isolates were identified. The groups of identical clinical isolates suggest a common source of exposure.