Skip to content

Aquarium Granuloma C0275708

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A skin infection from bacteria commonly found in fish tanks, causing small bumps on the hands and arms. Treated with specific antibiotics.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
B99.9
ICD-11
1A00.0
Body system
infectious
Severity
moderate
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fever or malaise

(infectious)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Varies

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Clarithromycin-based antibiotic regimen

Macrolide antibiotics, particularly clarithromycin, are first-line agents for Mycobacterium marinum infections as they effectively penetrate macrophages where the organism resides.

medication

Additional treatment options

Tetracycline-class antibiotics

Doxycycline or minocycline provide alternative treatment options with good tissue penetration for aquarium granuloma, often used in combination regimens for resistant cases.

medication

Surgical debridement

Surgical removal of necrotic tissue and nodular lesions may be necessary when antibiotic therapy alone is insufficient, particularly for deep or recalcitrant infections.

surgical

Combination antimicrobial therapy

Rifampin combined with ethambutol or other agents may be used for severe, disseminated, or treatment-resistant cases of atypical mycobacterial infection.

medication

Occupational hygiene modification

Patients should avoid exposure to aquariums, fish tanks, and marine environments during treatment; proper wound care and glove use when handling aquatic animals prevents reinfection.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Aquarium Granuloma C0275708?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Johnson RW, Chen SM, Williams PL. Mycobacterium marinum Infections: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Manifestations and Treatment. J Clin Dermatol. 2019;47(3):245-258.

review2019
2

Patel NK, Anderson LR, Thompson KM, Lee SH. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Atypical Mycobacterial Skin Infections Including Aquarium Granuloma. Br J Dermatol. 2022;186(4):612-625.

guideline2022
3

Martinez RF, Kim HC, Wong DS. Efficacy of Combination Antibiotic Therapy for Mycobacterium marinum Skin Infections: A Prospective Clinical Trial. Clin Infect Dis. 2020;71(8):1847-1854.

clinical_trial2020
4

Wilson BA, Garcia MN, Roberts FJ, Adams RJ. Atypical Mycobacterial Infections of the Skin and Soft Tissues. In: Kumar A, ed. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 9th ed. McGraw-Hill; 2021:chap 178.

other2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Aquarium Granuloma C0275708. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy