CULTURAL-STUDIES ON 2 ISOLATES OF MYCOBACTERIUM-GENAVENSE FROM PATIENTS WITH ACQUIRED-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-SYNDROME

Two strains of the newly proposed species ''Mycobacterium genavense'' have been isolated, using the radiometric system (Bactec, Becton Dicki nson), from the blood of two HIV-infected patients. Disseminated infec tions due to the new organism closely resemble those of the Mycobacter ium avium complex, with prevalently intestinal symptomatology. We repo rt here on the cultural behavior of the isolates, which are enhanced a t pH 6, are inhibited by NAP, do not require supplements, and grow bes t at 37 degrees C. We also report on the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates.