Mycobacterium chelonae hand infection following acupuncture: a case report and literature review

Hand infection caused by atypical mycobacteria is an uncommon condition. We present a case of hand infection caused by <i>Mycobacterium chelonae</i> in a patient who had undergone acupuncture. The clinical features, treatment, and outcome are described. Biopsy and cultures are essential for the diagnosis because <i>Mycobacterium chelonae</i> is a rare cause of human infection and is difficult to diagnose unless suspected. The patient was successfully treated through a combination of surgical excision, debridement, and antimicrobial therapy. We also reviewed the available literature to summarize the experience related to this infectious entity.