Study on Nocardia in Psoas Abscess: A Rare Case Presentation

Abstract

We report a case of primary psoas abscess caused by Nocardia in an immunocompetent patient who presented with low back ache with pain radiating to both legs. The objective of the study is to summarize the clinical characteristics of this rare presentation in order to improve the knowledge of Nocardia which can help in making diagnosis of Nocardiosis in clinical cases. Unless suspected, the diagnosis can be easily missed resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. A suspicion of nocardiosis was made based on gram staining and modified acid fast staining of material obtained by ultrasound guided aspiration. The patient showed remarkable recovery after treatment with co-trimoxasole. Quick identification by simple gram staining and modified acid fast staining helped in timely diagnosis and treatment of the patient.