LAUSR

This issue of the European Respiratory Journal presents a series of research papers, reviews and editorials on the emerging problem of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease, the burden of which is increasing in many parts of the world [1]. Thus, NTM-related disease is a burgeoning public health problem even in areas where tuberculosis is endemic. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria are hardy environmental saprophytes and opportunistic pathogens that usually afflict those with structural lung disease and/or a compromised immune system due to old age or other reasons, including poorly characterised hereditary or acquired defects in innate or adaptive immunity [2]. Although there many causes of NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD), Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Mycobacterium kansasii and Mycobacterium abscessus (MAB) are generally the most commonly seen causative agents in many parts of the world [1]. Improving outcomes in patients with non-tuberculous mycobacterial diseases http://bit.ly/2ITj8O2