Nocardia otitidiscaviarum causing pulmonary nocardiosis: a case report and its review of the literature

Abstract

Background. Infections caused by Nocardia spp. can occur in immunocompromised as well as immunocompetent individuals. Although nocardiosis is rare, it is being increasingly recognized owing to the rise in occurrence rate over the years. The documentation of pleural involvement in nocardiosis is rare in India. Case. We report a case of pulmonary nocardiosis in an immunocompromised individual caused by Nocardia otitidiscaviarum. Discussion. Pulmonary nocardiosis caused by Nocardia otitidiscaviarum may go unnoticed without clinical suspicion. Correct and timely identification is the key to proper patient management. Conclusion. Coordination between clinicians and microbiologists is necessary for early diagnosis and appropriate management of nocardiosis.