Mycobacterium Avium complex vertebral osteomyelitis in the absence of HIV infection: a case report and review.

MAC is an unusual cause of vertebral osteomyelitis in patients with AIDS, but is exceedingly rare in those without severe immune compromise. Despite its rarity, it must be considered in cases of vertebral osteomyelitis that do not respond to empiric antibiotic therapy. Multiple biopsies may be necessary to obtain a diagnosis and avoid destructive infectious complications of an untreated infection.