Introduction: Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial diseases (MSMD), a group of at least 18 different genetic disorders, encompasses a specific class of inborn errors of immunity that result in predilection to infection with mycobacteria including the weakly virulent strains. Primarily, these consist of defects in the IFN-γ-IL-12/23 circuit that is crucial for immunity against intracellular microorganisms. Although the first genetic etiology of MSMD was discovered in 1996, molecular diagnosis of MSMD in resource-constrained settings may remain far-fetched. Recently, original studies have emerged from developing countries, including India, wherein the genetic diagnosis was confirmed within the country itself. A lag of about 25 years, hence, seems to exist.Areas covered: Herein, we review the clinical, laboratory, and mutational profiles of the genetic defects responsible for causing MSMD. We intend to enhance the recognition of these disorders in settings endemic for tuberculosis and bridge the gap between the developed and developing countries in the field of MSMD research and therapeutics.Expert opinion: Research in the field of MSMD in developing countries, including India, can uncover novel genetic etiologies, as the population exceeds 1.3 billion, a huge burden of tuberculosis exists, and BCG vaccination is given universally at birth.
Keywords: BCG; India; MSMD; flow cytometry; genetics; mycobacterium tuberculosis.