Nocardiosis: An opportunistic infection in A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

M. J. Wu, L. Y. Lu, H. H. Cheng, Y. C. Liu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Nocardiosis is a uncommon opportunistic infection but has been increasingly recognized in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is important because it is curable but still causes high mortality, which is usually contributed by delayed diagnosis and treatment. A high index of suspicion, an aggressive attitude in diagnosis, and early adequate therapy are necessary for management of nocardiosis in SLE. We report a 45-year-old woman with SLE who presented intermittent high fever, productive cough and general weakness. Initially, pulmonary tuberculosis was considered and antituberculous regimen was started. However, her symptoms did not subside by this regimen for one month. Repeated pleurocentesis yielded pus, and smear/cultures confirmed the diagnosis of nocardiosis. The patient received adequate antibiotic therapy in addition to adjunctive surgical drain for her empyema, and ended up with complete recovery.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)41-44
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Internal Medicine of Taiwan
Volume12
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Nocardiosis
  • Opportunistic infection
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Internal Medicine

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