[Infections caused by Mycobacterium africanum].

Mycobacterium africanum is a bacterial species that was singled out in 1969. Its biochemical and cultural characteristics are intermediary between those of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis. This bacteria is responsible for tuberculosis in both western and central Africa. We can distinguish between four different types dependent upon the geographical origins of the patients. The extent of this case, with multiple cutaneous and visceral lesions, could not be explained by a past or associated disease or by an immunological defect, be it congenital or acquired.