Atypical cervico-facial mycobacterial infections in childhood

We describe three patients who presented with atypical mycobacterial infection. Although antituberculous drugs are ineffective, combination treatment with clarithromycin or amikacin and ciprofloxacin (with or without cotrimoxazole) leads to eventual resolution of the lesions. The treatment of choice, however, remains complete excision of the affected area which obviates the need for prolonged chemotherapy and minimizes the scarring which may otherwise develop after conservative treatment.