Prevalence and Molecular Typing of Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria in Hospital Water Sources of Tehran, Iran

Background: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) pose a growing public health concern, especially in regions with high prevalence rates. Iran, situated near high-burden countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan, is particularly vulnerable. This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of NTM in water samples from Farhikhtegan Hospital, Tehran. Methods: A total of 70 water samples were collected from various hospital departments. After culture and phenotypic identification, 33 mycobacterial isolates were subjected to polymerase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis of the rpoB gene. Results: Mycobacterium fortuitum type I was the most prevalent NTM species, accounting for 81% of the isolates. Mycobacterium kansasii type I and Mycobacterium gordonae type I followed, each comprising 6% of the isolates. Less common species included M. gordonae type II and Mycobacterium intracellulare. The PCR-RFLP method proved to be a sensitive and accurate tool for identifying NTM species. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the NTM profile in Farhikhtegan Hospital and underscores the importance of effective surveillance and control measures to mitigate the risk of NTM infections.