Determination of Blood Stream Infection by Nocardia farcinica in Patient with Advanced Brain Cancer in at an Oncology Centre in North India

Abstract

The aims of this study to find out the pattern of blood stream infections (BSIs) caused by various opportunistic pathogens such as Nocardia species. Nocardia farcinica is an emerging opportunistic pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Since nocardiosis has a highly resistant antibiotic profile, early detection and the proper antibiotic susceptibility testing are essential for prompt diagnosis. This can increase the patients' chances of survival. A 52-year-old man with brain cancer was diagnosed with fatal N. farcinica bacterimia. He was admitted due to fever, loss of recent memory, increased aggressiveness, and occasional fits. At the time of hospital admission, blood cultures were taken, and N. farcinica was isolated and identified using automated culture and identification systems. Despite prompt antibiotic treatment, the patient died after 48 hours. The cancer patients residing in endemic rural areas where they have greater exposure and contact with moist soil and vegetations or those living under unhygienic conditions are more prone to acquire infections by such opportunistic pathogens, leading to severe complications and fatal outcomes.