Swimming pool granuloma

Localized nodular skin inflammation (small reddish raised areas of skin) caused by a bacterium called mycobacterium marinum. Swimming pool granuloma is typically acquired by occupational or recreational exposure to salt or fresh water, often resulting from minor trauma during caring for aquariums. The diagnosis is suggested by the history of exposure and confirmed by culturing tissue specimens which yield the microscopic organism, mycobacterium marinum. The infection can be treated with a variety of antibiotics, including doxycycline, minocycline, clarithromycin, rifampin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Also called "fish bowl granuloma."

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a chronic granulomatous bacterial infection caused by contamination of an abrasion by Mycobacterium marinum from a swimming pool, aquarium, or similar enclosed tank of water that does not circulate enough. The most common sites of abrasions are on the elbows, fingers, backs of the hands, and knees. There is a papule or pustule at the site of inoculation that enlarges and may break down and become covered by a brownish crust; if there is no reinfection, the lesion heals spontaneously over several months. Called also aquarium or fish tank g.