TB / Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Nontuberculous mycobacteria, or NTM, are a diverse group of environmental organisms that are increasingly recognized as important causes of human disease. Found in water, soil, and natural environments, these bacteria can lead to chronic and difficult to treat infections, particularly affecting the lungs, skin, and soft tissues.
NTM infections are an emerging global health concern. Their incidence is rising in many regions, driven by factors such as aging populations, underlying lung disease, and increased awareness and detection. These infections are often complex to manage, requiring prolonged therapy with multiple antimicrobial agents and careful clinical oversight.
Research in this area at UBC focuses on improving the understanding, diagnosis, and management of NTM disease. This includes studying the epidemiology and transmission of NTM, advancing diagnostic approaches, and optimizing treatment strategies to improve outcomes for patients.
By bringing together clinical expertise, laboratory science, and population health research, this work aims to:
- Improve the early and accurate diagnosis of NTM infections
- Advance individualized and effective treatment approaches
- Better understand risk factors and disease progression
- Reduce the burden of chronic infection and associated complications
- Inform clinical guidelines and public health strategies
Through collaborative and patient focused research, the NTM program seeks to address critical knowledge gaps and improve care for individuals affected by these challenging infections.
Current Projects
This research examines real world use of bedaquiline in the treatment of nontuberculous mycobacterial infections. By reviewing clinical outcomes, safety, and tolerability, it aims to improve understanding of how this therapy can be used to support patients with complex or treatment resistant disease.
This work synthesizes current evidence on the risks and clinical presentation of ethambutol related toxicity in patients treated for NTM infections. The goal is to support earlier recognition, safer prescribing practices, and more effective monitoring strategies in long term care.
This initiative focuses on improving patient education and monitoring practices related to ethambutol use. By implementing and evaluating patient centered resources, it aims to enhance early detection of toxicity and improve patient experience and quality of life during treatment.
Future Projects
- Contributing to advancing Bronchiectasis research. Learn more at Canadian Bronchiectasis and NTM Research Registry
- Longitudinal assessment of Quality of Life metrics for patients with NTM lung disease, both on antibiotic treatment and before/after antibiotic treatment
- Engaging patient partners to inform patient-directed research priorities
Team
Lab
The Av‑Gay Lab focuses on advancing our understanding of tuberculosis (TB), a major global infectious disease. The lab studies how Mycobacterium tuberculosis survives within human immune cells and explores new approaches to treating drug‑resistant infections. Learn more about the Av-Gay Research Lab
Patient Care
Visit the NTM Clinic
Feature Publications
- Review of the Canadian Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Disease Landscape-Challenges and Opportunities. Read Publication