Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense strain 114

Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense strain 114 is a rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in chloraminated water environments. It possesses true flagella, indicating motility, which may enhance its survival and pathogenicity in various habitats. This strain is characterized by having one replicon, contributing to its genomic stability. M. abscessus subsp. massiliense is known to infect a range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, Metazoa, Aves, Phocidae, Rodentia, and Panthera leo. This broad host range suggests its ecological versatility and potential zoonotic transmission, raising public health concerns. The health effects associated with this strain are significant and varied. In humans, it can lead to severe conditions such as endocarditis, peritonitis, and various pulmonary diseases, including chronic pulmonary infections and non-cavitary pneumonia. Moreover, it is implicated in both skin infections and localized lesions, making it a notable pathogen in both cutaneous and respiratory contexts. The potential for disseminated disease further underscores its pathogenic capabilities, posing risks not only to immunocompromised individuals but also to healthy hosts. The ecological presence of M. abscessus subsp. massiliense in chloraminated water systems highlights the importance of water quality and management in disease prevention. Understanding its habitat and host interactions is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the risks associated with infections caused by this opportunistic pathogen.