Mycobacterium gordonae

Mycobacterium gordonae is a Gram-positive, immobile rod-shaped bacterium. The pathogen belongs to the non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) from the strain of actinobacteria.

Mycobacterium gordonae causes diseases similar to tuberculosis. Nosocomial diseases are also described. Disease patterns include:

  • Pneumonia

  • Skin infections

  • Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)

Mycobacterium gordonae is widespread in the soil and in (tap) water. It can also often be detected on mucous membranes of healthy people.

Relevance of pathogen in transmission in endoscopy

  • Gastroenterology: Not relevant

  • Pulmonology: High

  • Ear, nose, and throat: Not relevant

  • Urology: Low

Relevance for endoscope surveillance

  • Low or moderate concern organism

Transmission route

Mycobacterium gordonae primarily occurs in tap water and can therefore infect humans.

The pathogen can also be spread and transmitted through water in healthcare facilities. The water used for final rinsing of endoscopes must therefore be microbiologically controlled.

Resistance to antibiotics

Mycobacterium gordonae shows strong antibiotic resistance, including to isoniazid.

Sources and further readings

  1. Davis D et al. Disinfection of the flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M gordonae, Thorax. 1984 Oct;39(10):785-8.

  2. Morimoto K et al. Clinical and microbiological features of definite Mycobacterium gordonae pulmonary disease: the establishment of diagnostic criteria for low-virulence mycobacteria, Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2015 Sep;109(9):589-93.

  3. Phillips MS / von Reyn CF Nosocomial infections due to nontuberculous mycobacteria. Clin Infect Dis. 2001 Oct 15;33(8):1363–74.

  4. Resch B et al. Pulmonary infection due to Mycobacterium gordonae in an adolescent immunocompetent patient, Respiration. 1997;64(4):300–3.

  5. Weinberger M et al. Disseminated infection with Mycobacterium gordonae: report of a case and critical review of the literature. Clin Infect Dis. 1992 Jun;14(6):1229–39.