This review evaluates the epidemiology, clinical presentations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies for nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), with attention to rapidly growing mycobacteria, *M. marinum*, and *M. ulcerans*.
Rapidly growing mycobacteria predominate in iatrogenic and health care-associated NTM SSTIs; *M. marinum* and *M. ulcerans* are linked to aquatic exposure. Diagnostic delay is a universal challenge due to nonspecific presentations and the need for specialized lab techniques. Treatment requires pathogen-specific combination regimens.
As a narrative review, no primary data or outcomes are reported; findings are synthesis-level only and subject to selection bias in source literature.
Maintain a high index of suspicion for NTM SSTIs in patients with nonhealing wounds, prior aquatic exposure, or healthcare-associated procedures — early specialized laboratory workup is critical. Treatment must be tailored to the specific NTM pathogen using combination regimens.
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