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Primary cutaneous nocardiosis.
1Department of Dermatology, Royal Newcastle Hospital, New South Wales, Australia. antonylau@ozemail.com.au
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|May 20, 1999
Summary
Primary cutaneous nocardiosis in an asthmatic patient resolved with clarithromycin. This case highlights challenges in diagnosing and treating Nocardia asteroides infections, especially with antimicrobial resistance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Primary cutaneous nocardiosis is a rare infection.
- Nocardia asteroides can cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- A steroid-dependent asthmatic presented with painful nodules on the lower leg.
- Initial treatment with cephalexin and minocycline failed, with infection worsening.
Findings:
- Complete resolution of nocardiosis was achieved with a 12-week course of oral clarithromycin.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing for Nocardia species presents diagnostic challenges.
Implications:
- Clarithromycin can be an effective treatment for Nocardia asteroides cutaneous infections.
- Physicians should consider nocardiosis in immunocompromised patients with persistent skin lesions.
- Further research is needed to improve Nocardia susceptibility testing methods.