Mycobacterium

Mycobacterium is a group of bacteria known for their distinctive cell walls, which make them resistant to some traditional treatments. They include species like Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the cause of tuberculosis, a serious lung infection, and Mycobacterium leprae, responsible for leprosy. These bacteria are slow-growing and can live inside the human body’s cells, making infections difficult to treat. Diagnosis often involves specialized testing, and treatment requires prolonged courses of specific antibiotics. Understanding these bacteria helps in managing diseases they cause and developing effective therapies.