MAC is NTM: Understanding the Connection Between These Two Terms

Many patients newly diagnosed with a mycobacterial lung infection are often confused by the terminology used. You may have heard your doctor mention “MAC” or “NTM” — sometimes interchangeably — and wondered, “What’s the difference?” or “Are these the same condition?” Or your doctor might simply have told you that you have MAC lung disease, without explaining what kind of infection it is.At NTM Info & Research (NTMir), we often hear from patients who struggled to find us online because they were searching for “MAC lung disease” instead of “NTM” (nontuberculous mycobacteria). This blog aims to clear up the confusion, explain how MAC and NTM are connected, and help you find the resources and support you need.

What is NTM?

NTM stands for nontuberculous mycobacteria — a group of naturally occurring bacteria found in water and soil. There are over 190 species of NTM, and while many are harmless, some can cause serious lung infections, especially in individuals with underlying lung conditions or weakened immune systems. NTM infections are not contagious, but they can be chronic and difficult to treat without the right diagnosis and care.

What is MAC?

MAC stands for Mycobacterium avium complex, which is a subset of NTM. It includes several closely related species, such as:

Mycobacterium avium

Mycobacterium intracellulare

MAC is the most common type of NTM lung infection, particularly in the United States.

So while MAC is a type of NTM, not all NTM infections are caused by MAC.

Think of it this way:

All MAC is NTM, but not all NTM is MAC.

Why Do Patients Search for MAC Instead of NTM?

Many patients first hear the term “MAC” from their doctors or test results, and they naturally begin searching for “MAC lung disease,” “MAC infection,” or “treatment for MAC.” They may not immediately associate MAC with NTM, and as a result, they miss out on resources specifically created to support patients with NTM lung disease. At NTM Info & Research, we want to make sure you find the right information, community support, and treatment guidance, whether you searched for MAC or NTM.

Common Search Terms That Relate to NTM Lung Disease:

• If you found this blog while searching for any of the following, you’re in the right place:
• What is MAC lung disease?
• Treatment for MAC infection
• MAC vs. NTM
• Nontuberculous mycobacterial infection
• Mycobacterium avium complex treatment
• Symptoms of MAC
• Support groups for MAC lung patients
• Symptoms of MAC Lung Disease

While symptoms may vary, many people with MAC/NTM lung disease experience:

• Chronic cough (often dry or with sputum)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Night sweats
• Weight loss
• Low-grade fever

 

If you have any of these symptoms and a history of lung issues (such as bronchiectasis, COPD, or asthma), it’s important to ask your doctor about testing for NTM — including MAC.

Getting Diagnosed and Treated

MAC lung disease is slow-growing, which can lead to delayed diagnosis. That’s why raising awareness — and connecting the dots between MAC and NTM — is so important.

• A proper diagnosis usually requires:
• A high-resolution CT scan
• Sputum cultures and lab tests
• Clinical evaluation by a specialist
• Treatment often involves a combination of antibiotics over many months, and may vary based on the severity of the disease and the patient’s overall health.

 

NTM Info & Research: Here to Support All NTM Patients, Including Those with MAC

Whether you were diagnosed with MAC or another form of NTM, our organization is here for you. NTM Info & Research provides:

• Patient education
• Support groups
• Webinars with medical experts
• Advocacy and research updates
• Physician directories and treatment center info

 

Final Thoughts

If you were recently diagnosed with MAC, you are not alone — and yes, MAC is NTM. Knowing this connection can help you find the right care, communities, and educational resources faster.

Visit ntminfo.org to learn more, or reach out to our team to get connected with support groups and patient resources.