[Nocardiosis in immunocompromised host presenting as cellulitis].

BACKGROUND

Nocardia is a rare pathogen of mainly immunocomprised patients. Only two cases of nocardiosis have previously been identified in Iceland.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 92-year-old male on glucocorticoid therapy with metastatic bladder cancer presented with two weeks history of progressive swelling and erythema of the hand and deteriorating cognitive functioning. A brain lesion and pulmonary nodules were identified and Nocardia farcinia was cultured from a hand abscess. The patient was initially treated with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole but because of rapid deterioration and old age an end-of-life decision was made.

CONCLUSION

This case of nocardiosis illustrates the importance of uncommon opportunistic infections in immunocompromised Icelandic patients.