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Del Ricco VF, Occhineri S, Leonildi A, Falcone M, Lupetti A, Rindi L. A rare case of primary cutaneous Nocardia vinacea in an immunocompetent patient: A case report and a review of the literature. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:116307. [PMID: 38733753 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The nocardiae are a complex group of bacteria belonging to the aerobic saprophytes actinomycetes. Although nocardiosis typically occurs in immunocompromised patients, infection may occasionally develop in immunocompetent patients as well. Here we describe a rare case of primary cutaneous nocardiosis due to Nocardia vinacea in an immunocompetent 79-year-old patient. Since cutaneous nocardiosis presents variably and mimics other cutaneous infections, acid-fast and Gram stainings on clinical samples are significant to obtain a rapid and presumptive diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Occhineri
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Marco Falcone
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonella Lupetti
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Rindi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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2
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Inthasot S, Leemans S, Hing M, Vanderhulst J. Fever of unknown origin revealing testicular nocardiosis: a case report and literature review. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:614. [PMID: 38907186 PMCID: PMC11191271 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09521-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nocardia is an ubiquitous soil organism. As an opportunistic pathogen, inhalation and skin inoculation are the most common routes of infection. Lungs and skin are the most frequent sites of nocardiosis. Testis is a highly unusual location for nocardiosis. CASE PRESENTATION We report the case of an immunocompromised 75-year-old-man admitted for fever of unknown origin. He presented with skin lesions after gardening and was first suspected of Mediterranean spotted fever, but he did not respond to doxycycline. Then, physical examination revealed new left scrotal swelling that was compatible with a diagnosis of epididymo-orchitis. The patient's condition did not improve despite empirical antibiotic treatment with the onset of necrotic scrotal abscesses requiring surgery. Nocardia brasiliensis yielded from the removed testis culture. High-dose trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and ceftriaxone were started. Multiple micro-abscesses were found in the brain and spinal cord on imaging studies. After 6 weeks of dual antibiotic therapy for disseminated nocardiosis, slight regression of the brain abscesses was observed. The patient was discharged after a 6-month course of antibiotics and remained relapse-free at that time of writing these lines. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole alone is meant to be pursued for 6 months thereafter. We undertook a literature review on previously reported cases of genitourinary and urological nocardiosis; to date, only 36 cases have been published with predominately involvement of kidney, prostate and testis. CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of Nocardia brasiliensis simultaneously infecting skin, testis, brain and spinal cord in an immunocompromised patient. Knowledge on uncommon forms of nocardiosis remains scarce. This case report highlights the difficulty of diagnosing atypical nocardiosis and the importance of prompt bacteriological sampling in case of empirical antibiotics failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saohoine Inthasot
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHU Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Sophie Leemans
- Department of Infectious Diseases, CHU Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mony Hing
- Department of Microbiology, Laboratoire Hospitalier Universitaire de Bruxelles-Universitair Laboratorium Brussel (LHUB-ULB), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julien Vanderhulst
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHU Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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3
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Madike R, Rana K, Patel S, Selva D. A case of disseminated nocardiosis with orbital apex involvement and endophthalmitis. Orbit 2024:1-4. [PMID: 38647136 DOI: 10.1080/01676830.2024.2343302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Nocardia is a rare cause of ocular infections and most commonly occurs secondary to trauma. Systemic Nocardiosis may have ocular involvement in rare cases. We report a case of disseminated nocardiosis with orbital apex involvement and endophthalmitis in an immunocompromised patient. The patient presented with respiratory sepsis, and later developed complete ptosis and ophthalmoplegia in the left eye. This was on the background of treatment with high-dose prednisolone. Magnetic resonance imaging showed enhancement of the entire clivus, extending into the left orbital apex and cavernous sinus. The patient was initially treated empirically for CNS tuberculosis. Bronchoscopic cultures returned positive for Nocardia farcinica, and the patient was treated with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and weaned off previous corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reema Madike
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Khizar Rana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sandy Patel
- South Australia Medical Imaging, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dinesh Selva
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
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4
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Song RJ, Zhang GL. A Rare Case Report of Disseminated Nocardia Farcinica Granulomatous Hepatitis and Clinical Management Experience. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:1523-1528. [PMID: 38645888 PMCID: PMC11032677 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s461494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Nocardiosis is primarily an opportunistic infection affecting immunocompromised individuals, with a predilection for the lungs, brain, or skin in those with compromised immune function. Granulomatous hepatitis caused by Nocardia is a rare clinical manifestation. This study aims to provide a systematic overview of the clinical features of Nocardiosis caused by Nocardia farcinica, enhancing our understanding of this disease. Methods We report a case of a 75-year-old male with no underlying diseases presenting with a history of "recurrent fever for more than 4 months", along with fatigue, poor appetite, and pleural and abdominal effusion. Despite treatment at multiple hospitals, the patient showed little improvement. Chest CT revealed chronic inflammation, small nodules, bilateral pleural effusion, and pleural thickening. Abdominal CT indicated multiple low-density lesions in the liver, multiple small calcifications, and abdominal effusion. Results Liver biopsy suggested inflammatory changes, with focal granuloma formation. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of liver tissue indicated Nocardia farcinica, leading to the final diagnosis of disseminated Nocardia farcinica granulomatous hepatitis. Conclusion Nocardia infection is a rare disease primarily observed in immunocompromised patients but can also occur in those with normal immune function. The clinical and radiological features lack specificity; however, the utilization of mNGS technology enables rapid identification of the pathogenic microorganism. Nocardia farcinica is generally susceptible to sulfonamide drugs and amikacin, offering viable treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Juan Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Anhui Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guang Lin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Anhui Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
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Nour EOM, Alnour TMS, Ibrahim NY, Abdelraheem MH, Elhaj NMA, Elsony A, Mostafa G. Fatal Nocardia paucivorans Lower Respiratory Tract Infection in a Tuberculosis Suspect Who Worked as Gold Miner. Int J Mycobacteriol 2024; 13:221-224. [PMID: 38916396 DOI: 10.4103/ijmy.ijmy_129_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Nocardiosis is an opportunistic infection that affects both immunocompromised as well as immunocompetent patients. The main infections occur as soft tissue and lung infections although they might disseminate to various organs. This is a case study aimed to reflect the severity of the disease and the patient's risk factors associated with the infection. A sputum sample was collected from tuberculosis (TB) suspects for culture. Nocardia-like colonies were isolated, purified, and sent to BGI Company (Hongkong, China). Standard forward sequencing of 16S rRNA was done by ABI Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems). Sequence alignment and nucleotide basic local alignment search tool (BLAST) were done using National Center for Bioinformatics (NCBI) Nucleotide BLAST. Biochemical identification to the colonies was done using an automation system (BD Phoenix™) to confirm the identification. Nocardia paucivorans was identified from the TB suspect. Risk factors were identified as extensive contact to dust, absence of primary care units with complete facilities, and old age. Since the infection of the lungs caused by Nocardia might be similar to pulmonary TB, this case report highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and identification procedures to differentiate between the two.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Osman Mohamed Nour
- EN and NI, National Public Health Laboratory-National Reference Tuberculosis Laboratory, Alzaiem Alazhari University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Tarig M S Alnour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology (FAMS), University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
- Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Alzaiem Alazhari University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Nuha Yousif Ibrahim
- EN and NI, National Public Health Laboratory-National Reference Tuberculosis Laboratory, Alzaiem Alazhari University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Mohamed H Abdelraheem
- Nuclear Applications in Biological Sciences, Sudan Atomic Energy Commission, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Nihad M A Elhaj
- Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Khartoum-Sudan, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Asma Elsony
- Epidemiological Laboratory (Epi-Lab) for Public Health, Research and Development, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Galal Mostafa
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Tropical Medicine Research Institute, National Center for Research, Ministry of Science and Communication, Khartoum, Sudan
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O'Brien A, Hart J, Higgins A, Arthur I, Lee GH, Leung M, Kennedy K, Bradbury S, Foster S, Warren S, Korman TM, Abbott IJ, Heney C, Bletchley C, Warner M, Wells N, Wilson D, Varadhan H, Stevens R, Lahra M, Newton P, Maley M, van Hal S, Ingram PR. Nocardia species distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility within Australia. Intern Med J 2024; 54:613-619. [PMID: 37929813 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nocardia is a ubiquitous saprophyte capable of causing human disease. Disease is primarily respiratory or cutaneous, usually acquired via inhalation or inoculation. Under the influence of environmental and host factors, Nocardia incidence and species distribution demonstrate geographical variation. AIMS To examine for differences in Nocardia incidence within Western Australia (WA) and analyse species distribution in the context of prior published studies. To analyse antibiogram data from a nationwide passive antimicrobial resistance surveillance program. METHODS Retrospective extraction of laboratory data for Western Australian Nocardia isolates over a 21-year period. Analysis of Nocardia antimicrobial susceptibility testing data submitted to the Australian Passive Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance (APAS) program between 2005 and 2022. RESULTS Nine hundred sixty WA isolates were identified, giving an annual incidence of 3.03 per 100 000 population with apparent latitudinal variation. The four most common species identified within WA and amongst APAS isolates were N. nova, N. cyriacigeorgica, N. brasiliensis and N. farcinica. APAS data demonstrated that all species exhibited high rates of susceptibility to linezolid (100%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (98%). Amikacin (>90% susceptibility for all species except N. transvalensis) was the next most active parenteral agent, superior to both carbapenems and third-generation cephalosporins. Susceptibility to oral antimicrobials (other than linezolid) demonstrated significant interspecies variation. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate geographical variation in the distribution of Nocardia incidence. Four species predominate in the Australian setting, and nationwide data confirm a high in vitro susceptibility to trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole and linezolid, justifying their ongoing role as part of first-line empiric therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aine O'Brien
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Julie Hart
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sir Charles Gardiner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ammie Higgins
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ian Arthur
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gar-Hing Lee
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael Leung
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Karina Kennedy
- ACT Health, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Susan Bradbury
- ACT Health, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Sarah Foster
- Launceston General Hospital, Tasmanian Health Service (THS), Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sanchia Warren
- Royal Hobart Hospital, Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tony M Korman
- Monash Health, Monash Infectious Diseases, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Claire Heney
- Pathology Queensland, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Morgyn Warner
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Wells
- South Australia Pathology, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Desley Wilson
- South Australia Pathology, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hemalatha Varadhan
- Hunter New England, NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Stevens
- South Eastern Sydney, NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Monica Lahra
- NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Newton
- Illawarra-Shoalhaven, NSW Health Pathology, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Maley
- South Western Sydney, NSW Health Pathology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Microbiology, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sebastian van Hal
- NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul R Ingram
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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7
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Ca J, Kumar P VB, Kandi V, N G, K S, Dharshini D, Batchu SVC, Bhanu P. Neglected Tropical Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e53933. [PMID: 38468991 PMCID: PMC10925483 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of diseases caused by diverse organisms, affecting millions of people in tropical and subtropical conditions. NTDs are more prevalent among people who live in poverty, without access to clean water, adequate sanitation, and quality health care. Most NTDs are chronic conditions and are potentially disablers than killers, leaving behind a trail of social consequences. Controlling NTDs has become complicated due to limited resources and are frequently ignored by global funding agencies. India experiences a significant burden of global NTDs. The paradox is that NTDs are preventable and treatable at an affordable cost. It then makes no sense as to why we co-exist with such diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has donned the leadership role of eliminating, eradicating, and controlling global NTDs. The WHO published a roadmap delineating a plan of action, which was being reviewed periodically. This led to substantive progress in tackling the NTDs. However, many challenges still exist to controlling and preventing NTDs. India has achieved significant progress towards NTD control and elimination by implementing the WHO strategies and action plans. This was evident by an increase in research and funding in this direction. The number of new drugs, vaccines, and investigative tools available and those in the pipeline is testimony to their efforts. Focusing singly on India's NTD problem would substantially reduce the burden of poverty-related neglected diseases and could dramatically advance the global health agenda. This review highlights the problem of NTDs in the Indian and global perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayashankar Ca
- Internal Medicine, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, IND
| | | | - Venkataramana Kandi
- Clinical Microbiology, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Karimnagar, IND
| | - Girish N
- Microbiology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, IND
| | - Sanjana K
- Dermatology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, IND
| | - Divya Dharshini
- General Medicine, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, IND
| | | | - Prakash Bhanu
- Dermatology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Bangalore, IND
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8
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Nathar S, Rajmichael R, Jeyaraj Pandian C, Nagarajan H, Mathimaran A, Kingsley JD, Jeyaraman J. Exploring Nocardia's ecological spectrum and novel therapeutic frontiers through whole-genome sequencing: unraveling drug resistance and virulence factors. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:76. [PMID: 38267747 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03799-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Nocardia farcinica is the leading pathogen responsible for nocardiosis, a life-threatening infection primarily affecting immunocompromised patients. In this study, the genomic sequence of a clinically isolated N. farcinica sample was sequenced. Subsequently, the assembled genome was annotated to identify antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes, as well as plasmid and prophages. The analysis of the entire genome size was 6,021,225 bp, with a GC content of 70.78% and consists of 103 contigs and N50 values of 292,531 bp. The genome analysis revealed the presence of several antimicrobial resistance genes, including RbpA, mtrA, FAR-1, blaFAR-1, blaFAR-1_1, and rox. In addition, virulence genes such as relA, icl, and mbtH were also detected. The present study signifies that N. farcinica genome is pivotal for the understanding of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes is crucial for comprehending resistance mechanism, and developing effective strategies to combat bacterial infections effectively, especially adhesins and toxins. This study aids in identifying crucial drug targets for combating multidrug-resistant N. farcinica in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaslinah Nathar
- Structural Biology and Bio-Computing Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Raji Rajmichael
- Structural Biology and Bio-Computing Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chitra Jeyaraj Pandian
- Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Umayal Ramanathan College for Women, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Hemavathy Nagarajan
- Structural Biology and Bio-Computing Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ahila Mathimaran
- Structural Biology and Bio-Computing Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jemima D Kingsley
- Orbito Asia Diagnostics Private Limited Coimbatore, Coimbatore, 641 045, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jeyakanthan Jeyaraman
- Structural Biology and Bio-Computing Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Alagappa University, Science Block, Karaikudi, 630 003, Tamil Nadu, India.
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9
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Tan Y, Yang M, Wan C, Tang S, Liu L, Chen L. Nocardia farcinica infection presenting as a solitary bronchial neoplasm in an immunocompetent adult: a case report. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 10:1337303. [PMID: 38274454 PMCID: PMC10809415 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1337303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Nocardia species are gram-positive, acid-fast, saprophytic, aerobic bacilli, predominantly resulting in opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals. Here, we reported a case of Nocardia infection in a 27-year-old woman with normal immunocompetence, who presented as a solitary neoplasm in the left principal bronchus with a chief complaint of postural dyspnea. By electrotomy via bronchoscopy, the neoplasm was successfully removed, and it was further identified as Nocardia farcinica by metagenomic next-generation sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Tan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mei Yang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chun Wan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shijie Tang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, 363 Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Agrawal S, Bisherwal K, Singal A, Das S, Prasad S. Primary Cutaneous Nocardiosis due to Nocardia asteroides Presenting as Mycetoma of Back in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Rare Presentation. Indian Dermatol Online J 2024; 15:118-120. [PMID: 38282993 PMCID: PMC10810402 DOI: 10.4103/idoj.idoj_13_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Agrawal
- Department of Dermatology and STD, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital (University of Delhi), New Delhi, India
| | - Kavita Bisherwal
- Department of Dermatology and STD, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital (University of Delhi), New Delhi, India
| | - Archana Singal
- Department of Dermatology and STD, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital (University of Delhi), New Delhi, India
| | - Shukla Das
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital (University of Delhi), New Delhi, India
| | - Swati Prasad
- Department of Pathology, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital (University of Delhi), New Delhi, India
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11
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Hao J, Li W, Wang Y, Zhao J, Chen Y. Clinical utility of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in pathogen detection for lower respiratory tract infections and impact on clinical outcomes in southernmost China. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1271952. [PMID: 38145053 PMCID: PMC10739398 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1271952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Today, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has emerged as a diagnostic tool for infections. However, since Hainan has a complicated pathogen spectrum, the diagnostic value and impact on patient outcomes of mNGS in Hainan are to be explored. Methods From April 2020 to October 2021, 266 suspected lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) patients in Hainan were enrolled, and specimens were collected before antibiotic treatment. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were subjected to mNGS and culture to compare the diagnostic performance. Other conventional microbiological tests (CMT) were also performed. Patients' treatments and clinical outcomes were recorded, and the antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were detected via mNGS workflow. Results The positive rate of mNGS outperformed that of culture (87.55% vs. 39.30%, p<0.001) and CMT (87.12% vs. 52.65%, p<0.001). Specifically, mNGS detected more P. aeruginosa (12.03% vs 9.02%, p<0.05), H. influenzae (9.77% vs 2.26%, p<0.001), Aspergillus fumigatus (3.00% vs 0.75%, p<0.05), Candida albicans (26.32% vs 7.52%, p<0.001) and uncommon pathogens. It also demonstrated great diagnostic advantages in Mycobacterium tuberculosis with 80% sensitivity and 97.4% specificity. Over half of the patients (147, 55.26%) had modified empirical treatment according to mNGS results and 89.12% of them responded well. For three deaths with modified treatment, multiple drug resistance was predicted by mNGS and confirmed by antibiotic susceptibility test. Conclusions The application of mNGS can benefit clinics in pathogen identification and antimicrobial treatment stewardship. Physicians should be alert to some emerging uncommon pathogens, including Chlamydia Psittaci, Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, and rare NTM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxiang Hao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Haikou Third People’s Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Weili Li
- Zhangjiang Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Biotecan Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Yaoyao Wang
- Zhangjiang Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Biotecan Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangman Zhao
- Zhangjiang Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Biotecan Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Haikou Third People’s Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, China
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12
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Kim S, Shi HJ, Jeon CH, Kim SB, Yi J, Kim AR, Kim KH, Lim S. Clinical Characteristics of Nocardiosis: a Multicenter Retrospective Study in Korea. Infect Chemother 2023; 55:431-440. [PMID: 37674336 PMCID: PMC10771949 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2023.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nocardiosis is a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition. It is difficult to diagnose, and bacterial culture identification can be time consuming. We investigated the characteristics of nocardiosis and the suitability of the treatment approach in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study was conducted at 5 medical institutions between 2011 and 2021. We reviewed the medical records of patients with microbiologically confirmed nocardiosis. Appropriate antibiotic selection was defined as follows: (1) selecting antibiotics according to the species, (2) if the species of Nocardia was unknown, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-based therapy or linezolid-based therapy was administered, and (3) selection of antibiotics using the antibiotic susceptibility test. The appropriate treatment periods for antibiotics were defined as treatment maintained from 3 to 12 months, depending on involvement of the organs. Descriptive analysis and Fisher exact test were used. Statistical significance was set at P-values of <0.05. RESULTS Thirty patients were enrolled. Of these patients, 18 (60.0%) were male. The median age was 70.5 years. Among the diagnosed patients, 12 (40.0%) had an immunocompromised status. Eight (30.0%) patients received optimal treatment for the appropriate treatment period. Appropriate dosing duration was observed in 3 of the 12 (25.0%) immunocompromised patients. There was no significant difference between the presence or absence of immunosuppression and the adequacy of treatment for nocardiosis (P = 1.000). Skin and soft tissue (14 patients) were most frequently involved in this study. Nocardia species (spp.) were isolated from culture at a median of 6.0 days. There were 7 cases with N. farcinica (23.3%). CONCLUSION We found that 60.0% of the patients with nocardiosis did not have an immunocompromised status. Further, 26.7% of the total patients received adequate treatment for nocardiosis. The reasons for suboptimal management of nocardiosis in Korea are presumed to be diagnostic difficulties, lack of awareness about nocardiosis, and difficulties in selecting antibiotics for Nocardia spp. among clinicians. The lack of antibiotic susceptibility tests for Nocardia spp. could be the source of these problems. Nocardiosis should be suspected in cases of recurrent infections with skin and soft tissue, musculoskeletal, or respiratory system involvement with or without an immunocompromised status. Clinical microbiological support is required for the diagnosis and selection of antibiotics in Korea. High clinical index of suspicion and clinical microbiological support are required for the accurate diagnosis of nocardiosis in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seulki Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Shi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Cheon-Hoo Jeon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon, Korea
| | - Sun Bean Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jongyoun Yi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - A Reum Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Kye-Hyung Kim
- Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea.
| | - Seungjin Lim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea.
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13
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Nieves Perez CA, Sánchez Pérez MJ, Vargas AS, Franco MA, Molina Obana MC. Cerebral Abscess Due to Nocardia beijingensis Associated With HIV: Case Report and Mini Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e47571. [PMID: 38021684 PMCID: PMC10666563 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain abscesses are severe focal infections of the central nervous system. We report the case of a 37-year-old patient with a recent diagnosis of HIV, who presented with weakness in the left arm that progressed to left hemiplegia, ipsilateral paresthesia, holo cranial headache, fever accompanied by chills, and left tonic-clonic movements. A craniectomy and lesion resection were performed along with antimicrobial treatment. Subsequently, the patient persisted with left hemiplegia, which significantly improved after the procedure and gradually through physical physiotherapy. During the investigation, we complete medical history, physical examination, Image tests, laboratory tests, and cultures. After the finalization of the approach, the final diagnosis was a brain abscess due to Nocardia beijingensis associated with HIV. The patient was managed with anticonvulsants: levetiracetam, antimicrobials: ceftriaxone, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, metronidazole, and vancomycin, Craniotomy plus resection of two brain abscesses, Steroidal anti-inflammatory: dexamethasone and antiretroviral therapy. With this, the patient was discharged successfully from the hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana S Vargas
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Angeles Pedregal, Mexico City, MEX
| | - Maria A Franco
- Internal Medicine, Hospital Angeles Pedregal, Mexico City, MEX
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14
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Suarez RI, Polmann M, Del Pilar Bonilla L, Torres-Viera CG, Bedran K. Immunosuppression and Opportunistic Infections: A Rare Case Report of Nocardia Osteomyelitis of the Pelvis. Cureus 2023; 15:e45306. [PMID: 37846230 PMCID: PMC10576979 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with a long-standing history of immunosuppression are at significantly increased risk of opportunistic infections. One such group of organisms that may cause these types of infections includes the Nocardia genus, a gram-positive, filamentous rod that demonstrates a branching pattern, is urease-producing and has acid-fast properties. The disease profile of Nocardia varies with manifestations ranging from cutaneous infection to severe pulmonary or central nervous system (CNS) infections, and rarely, osteomyelitis. In this case report, we present an 87-year-old female with persistent left gluteal and lumbar pain, generalized body aches, chills, and fevers diagnosed with Nocardia asiatica osteomyelitis of the pelvis, likely secondary to dissemination from pulmonary cavitary disease in an immunosuppressed host with chronic neutropenia. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the patient was found to have heterogeneous enhancement, central necrosis, and loss of cortical margins of the left iliac wing, alongside a rim-enhancing soft tissue mass from the left iliac bone into the left gluteal soft tissues and left paraspinal musculature representing an abscess. She was promptly treated with surgical irrigation and drainage with surgical wound cultures growing Nocardia asiatica. She received treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole antibiotics with symptom improvement and is following up with an infectious disease physician outpatient. Management of osteomyelitis, like in this case, involves long-term antibiotics with the potential need for surgical intervention. There are few reported cases of extrapulmonary Nocardia infections, particularly osteomyelitis, demonstrating the importance of their inclusion in the literature to better serve patients to allow for timely intervention for rare and life-threatening conditions. In immunocompromised hosts, the differential diagnosis should include opportunistic infections and less common pathogens, especially in those with atypical presentations, including gluteal and leg pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard I Suarez
- Health Policy, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Michaela Polmann
- Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | | | | | - Kebir Bedran
- Hospital Medicine, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, USA
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15
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Garcia Ribeiro M, da Silva CPC, Pchevuzinske LM, Portilho FVR, Siqueira AK, Takahira RK, Paschoal NR, de Souza AAL, Rodrigues CA, de Almeida BO, Bello TS, Filho MFÁ, de Lima Paz PJ, Dutra V, Nakazato L, Pereira NA, de Aguiar DM. Pleural effusion-related Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis coinfection in a dog. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:2497-2504. [PMID: 37351788 PMCID: PMC10484848 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01029-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The coinfections by some microorganisms have been related to severe diseases in humans and animals, where immunosuppressive agents favor opportunistic behavior of other pathogens. A 4-month-old, female mixed-breed dog with a two-week history of inappetence, prostration, emaciation, and respiratory distress was admitted at a veterinary hospital in Brazil. Tachycardia, pale mucous membranes, severe respiratory distress, and a large number of ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l.) in different body regions were observed at clinical examination. Hematological examination of dog showed leukocytosis, neutrophilia, mild anemia, and thrombocytopenia, whereas unremarkable values in biochemical tests. Thoracic radiography revealed a pleural effusion image. Blood and the pleural fluid (purulent aspect) samples were subjected to qPCR (16S rRNA and dsb genes) and sequencing, which identified Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys coinfection. An aggregate of coccoid-to-branching or long filamentous microorganisms, surrounded by pyogranulomatous inflammatory reaction was seen at the cytology of the pleural fluid. Bacteriological culture of pleural effusion showed colonies compatible with the genus Nocardia, which revealed gram-positive filamentous organisms with a tendency of fragmentation and were identified as Nocardia otitidiscaviarum in mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Therapy of N. otitidiscaviarum isolate using levofloxacin (supported by a previous in vitro susceptibility testing) and doxycycline for E. canis and A. platys resulted in complete resolution of the clinical picture. Here, we report for the first time a triple coinfection by Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, A. platys, and E. canis in a dog with pleural effusion, where debilitating or immunosuppressive conditions induced by A. platys and E. canis coinfection probably contributed to the opportunistic behavior of N. otitidiscaviarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcio Garcia Ribeiro
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | | | - Larissa Marry Pchevuzinske
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | | | | | - Regina Kiomi Takahira
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Natália Rodrigues Paschoal
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Thaís Spessotto Bello
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Marcelo Fagali Árabe Filho
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Patrik Júnior de Lima Paz
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Valéria Dutra
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT Brazil
| | - Luciano Nakazato
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT Brazil
| | - Nathalia Assis Pereira
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT Brazil
| | - Daniel Moura de Aguiar
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Cuiabá, MT Brazil
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16
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Motallebirad T, Mardanshah O, Safarabadi M, Ghaffari K, Orouji MA, Abedi B, Azadi D. Screening, molecular identification, population diversity, and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Actinomycetes species isolated from meat and meat products of slaughterhouses, restaurants, and meat stores of a developing country, Iran. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1134368. [PMID: 37520382 PMCID: PMC10373891 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1134368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Actinomycetes can colonize surfaces of tools and equipment and can be transferred to meat and meat products during manufacture, processing, handling, and storage. Moreover, washing the meat does not eliminate the microorganisms; it only spreads them. As a result, these opportunistic pathogens can enter the human body and cause various infections. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to screen, identify, and determine the antibiotic susceptibility of Actinomycetes species from meat and meat products in the Markazi province of Iran. Methods A total of 60 meat and meat product samples, including minced meat, mutton, beef, chicken, hamburgers, and sausages, were collected from slaughterhouses, butchers, and restaurants in the Markazi province of Iran. The samples were analyzed using standard microbiological protocols for the isolation and characterization of Actinomycetes. PCR amplification of hsp65 and 16SrRNA genes and sequence analysis of 16SrRNA were used for genus and species identification. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antimicrobial agents were determined by the broth microdilution method and interpreted according to the CLSI guidelines. Results A total of 21 (35%) Actinomycetes isolates from 5 genera and 12 species were isolated from 60 samples. The most prevalent Actinomycetes were from the genus Mycobacterium, with six (28.6%) isolates (M. avium complex, M. terrae, M. smegmatis, and M. novocastrense), followed by the genus Rhodococcus with five (23.8%) isolates (R. equi and R. erythropolis), the genus Actinomyces with four (19.1%) isolates (A. ruminicola and A. viscosus), the genus Nocardia with four (19.1%) isolates (N. asiatica, N. seriolae, and N. niigatensis), and the genus Streptomyces with two (9.5%) isolates (S. albus). Chicken and sausage samples had the highest and lowest levels of contamination, with six and one isolates. Respectively, the results of drug susceptibility testing (DST) showed that all isolates were susceptible to Ofloxacin, Amikacin, Ciprofloxacin, and Levofloxacin, whereas all of them were resistant to Doxycycline and Rifampicin. Discussion The findings suggest that meat and meat products play an important role as a reservoir for the transmission of Actinomycetes to humans, thus causing life-threatening foodborne diseases such as gastrointestinal and cutaneous disorders. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate basic hygiene measures into the cycle of meat production to ensure food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Motallebirad
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
| | - Omid Mardanshah
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Safarabadi
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
| | - Kazem Ghaffari
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Orouji
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
| | - Behnam Abedi
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
| | - Davood Azadi
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
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17
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Wang C, Sun Q, Yan J, Liao X, Long S, Zheng M, Zhang Y, Yang X, Shi G, Zhao Y, Wang G, Pan J. The species distribution and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Nocardia species in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011432. [PMID: 37428800 PMCID: PMC10358964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nocardia species can cause local or disseminated infection. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment of nocardiosis are required, because it can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Knowledge of local species distribution and susceptibility patterns is important to appropriate empiric therapy. However, knowledge on the epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of clinical Nocardia species remains limited in China. METHODS The data of isolation of Nocardia species were collected from databases such as Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase as well as Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang and VIP). Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. Random effect models were used and tested with Cochran's Q and I2 statistics taking into account the possibility of heterogeneity between studies. RESULTS In total, 791 Nocardia isolates were identified to 19 species levels among all the recruited studies. The most common species were N. farcinica (29.1%, 230/791), followed by N. cyriacigeorgica (25.3%, 200/791), N. brasiliensis (11.8%, 93/791) and N. otitidiscaviarum (7.8%, 62/791). N. farcinica and N. cyriacigeorgica are widely distributed, N. brasiliensis mainly prevalent in the Southern, N. otitidiscaviarum mainly distributed in the east coastal provinces of China. Totally, 70.4% (223/317) Nocardia were cultured from respiratory tract specimens, 16.4% (52/317) from extra-pulmonary specimens, and 13.3% (42/317) from disseminated infection. The proportion of susceptible isolates as follows: linezolid 99.5% (197/198), amikacin 96.0% (190/198), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 92.9% (184/198), imipenem 64.7% (128/198). Susceptibility varied by species of Nocardia. CONCLUSIONS N. farcinica and N. cyriacigeorgica are the most frequently isolated species, which are widely distributed in China. Pulmonary nocardiosis is the most common type of infection. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can still be the preferred agent for initial Nocardia infection therapy due to the low resistance rate, linezolid and amikacin could be an alternative to treat nocardiosis or a choice in a combination regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xinlei Liao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Sibo Long
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Maike Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Tuberculosis Department, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinting Yang
- Tuberculosis Department, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guangli Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Guirong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Junhua Pan
- Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Institute, Beijing, China
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18
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Condas LAZ, de Farias MR, Siqueira AK, Salerno T, Chi KD, Werner J, de Vargas AC, Bond GB, Gonoi T, Matsuzawa T, Ribeiro MG. Molecular identification and antimicrobial resistance pattern of Nocardia isolated from 14 diseased dogs and cats. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:1287-1294. [PMID: 37079272 PMCID: PMC10234972 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-00968-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Nocardia are ubiquitous, saprophytic and opportunistic bacteria. They cause a set of pyogenic clinical infections in animals and humans, particularly immunocompromised patients, mostly affecting the skin and respiratory tract, with refractoriness to conventional therapy. The most descriptions of nocardial infections in companion animals involve case reports, and there are scarce case series studies focused on canine and feline nocardiosis in which diagnosis has been based on molecular techniques. We investigated epidemiological aspects, clinical findings, in vitro susceptibility profile, and molecular identification of Nocardia using PCR-based method targeted 16S rRNA gene in twelve dogs and two cats. Among dogs were observed cutaneous lesions (8/12 = 67%), pneumonia (3/12 = 25%), and encephalitis (2/12 = 17%), whereas cats developed cutaneous lesions and osteomyelitis. Nocardia and canine morbillivirus coinfection was described in six dogs (6/12 = 50%). A high mortality rate (6/8 = 75%) was seen among dogs. Three dogs (3/4 = 75%) and one cat (1/2 = 50%) with systemic signs (pneumonia, encephalitis, osteomyelitis), and 83% (5/6) of dogs with a history of concomitant morbillivirus infection died. N. nova (5/12 = 42%), N. cyriacigeorgica (3/12 = 25%), N. farcinica (2/12 = 17%), N. veterana (1/12 = 8%), and N. asteroides (1/12 = 8%) species were identified in dogs, whereas N. africana and N. veterana in cats. Among the isolates from dogs, cefuroxime (12/12 = 100%), amikacin (10/12 = 83%), gentamycin (10/12 = 83%), and imipenem (10/12 = 83%) were the most effective antimicrobials, whereas cefuroxime, cephalexin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, imipenem, and gentamycin were efficient against isolates from cats. Multidrug resistance was observed in 36% (5/14) of isolates. We describe a variety of Nocardia species infecting dogs and cats, multidrug-resistant ones, and a high mortality rate, highlighting a poor prognosis of nocardiosis in companion animals, particularly among animals systemically compromised or coinfected by canine morbillivirus. Our study contributes to species identification, in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility profile, clinical-epidemiological aspects, and outcome of natural Nocardia-acquired infections in dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Anuska Zeni Condas
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, UniBrasil Centro Universitário, Curitiba, PR, Brasil.
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brasil.
| | | | - Amanda Keller Siqueira
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - Tatiana Salerno
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - Kung Darh Chi
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brasil
| | - Juliana Werner
- Laboratório de Histopatologia Veterinária Werner & Werner, Curitiba, Brasil
| | | | - Guilherme Borges Bond
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, UniBrasil Centro Universitário, Curitiba, PR, Brasil
| | - Tohru Gonoi
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Márcio Garcia Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Produção Animal e Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
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19
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McKinney WP, Smith MR, Roberts SA, Morris AJ. Species distribution and susceptibility of Nocardia isolates in New Zealand 2002-2021. Pathology 2023:S0031-3025(23)00122-8. [PMID: 37277236 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to record the distribution and susceptibility of Nocardia species in New Zealand. Local and referred isolates were identified by an evolving approach over the study period including conventional phenotypic methods, susceptibility profiles, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and molecular sequencing. Isolates previously identified as a Nocardia sp. or part of the N. asteroides complex were reidentified by MALDI-TOF and/or molecular methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility to eight antibiotics was performed by standard microbroth dilution. The site of isolation, susceptibility profiles and species distribution were analysed. A total of 383 isolates were tested: N. brasiliensis 23 (6%), N. cyriacigeorgica 42 (11%), N. farcinica 41 (11%), N. nova complex 226 (59%), and 51 (13%) other species/complexes. The respiratory tract was the most common site of infection (244, 64%), with skin and soft tissue the second most common site (104, 27%). All 23 N. brasiliensis isolates were from skin and soft tissue specimens. Almost all isolates (≥98%) were susceptible to amikacin, linezolid and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole; 35% and 77% were resistant to clarithromycin and quinolones, respectively. The expected susceptibility profiles of the four common species and complex were observed for most agent-organism parings. Multi-drug resistance was uncommon (3.4%). The spectrum of Nocardia species in New Zealand is similar to overseas reports and our most common group is the N. nova complex. While amikacin, linezolid and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole remain good empiric treatment choices, other agents should have their activity confirmed before use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy P McKinney
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, LabPLUS, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Marian R Smith
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, LabPLUS, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally A Roberts
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, LabPLUS, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Arthur J Morris
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, LabPLUS, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
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20
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Wang S, Wang P, Liu J, Yang C, Li T, Yang J, Gu L, Wei M. Molecular detection of Nocardia: development and application of a real-time PCR assay in sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2023:10.1007/s10096-023-04619-4. [PMID: 37156981 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-023-04619-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of pulmonary nocardiosis remains challenging. Rapid detection of Nocardia is of primary importance for early diagnosis and precise treatment of nocardiosis. In this study, our objective was to develop and validate a new TaqMan real-time PCR (qPCR) assay for rapidly detecting Nocardia spp. in respiratory samples. Based on published sequence data, primers in a conserved region of the 16S rRNA gene and a probe within that region that was specific for Nocardia were designed. The distinction effect of the qPCR assay was assessed between Nocardia and other respiratory-associated bacteria. Furthermore, the specificity and sensitivity of the assay were evaluated in respiratory clinical samples (n = 205), compared to the results of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and clinical diagnosis. The qPCR assay exhibited high specificity, sensitivity, repeatability, and reproducibility. The limit of detection of standard plasmid DNA was 3 × 102 copies/mL. Additionally, the qPCR assay was applied to the direct detection of 205 clinical respiratory samples. The specificity and sensitivity of the qPCR were all 100% compared to 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, as well as 98.4% and 100% compared to clinical diagnosis respectively. The qPCR yielded results within 3 h of sample processing, compared to several days for culture, significantly reducing turnaround time. The results suggest that the new qPCR assay developed in this study provides reliable and rapid detection of Nocardia spp. in the respiratory tracts and is expected to reduce the time required for diagnosing and treating nocardiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxia Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianmeng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingxian Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li Gu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Ming Wei
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Beijing Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Li F, Wang J, Chen C, Yang H, Man R, Yu S. Otomastoiditis Caused by Nocardia Farcinica: A Case Report and Literature Review. EAR, NOSE & THROAT JOURNAL 2023:1455613231165166. [PMID: 36941739 DOI: 10.1177/01455613231165166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Nocardia farcinica usually infects people with impaired immune status and usually manifests in the lungs. Otomastoiditis caused by Nocardia infection is extremely rare, with only 4 cases reported to date. This report describes a case of otomastoid N. farcinica infection in an immunocompetent patient. The case was a 10-month-old immunocompetent infant who presented with an approximately 3-month history of right ear discharge for which treatment with various antibiotics had not resulted in significant improvement. Multiple cultures of secretions and pathologic examination failed to identify the causative organism. The patient then underwent right mastoidectomy. Finally, metagenomic next-generation sequencing identified the pathogen to be N. farcinica. The patient was infection-free at the 6-month follow-up but had developed labyrinthitis ossificans. Otomastoid Nocardia infection has characteristic clinical features, namely, formation of a large amount of granulation tissue and coexistence of bone destruction and new bone formation. Traditionally, Nocardia is challenging to diagnose. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing of lesions is helpful. Complete local debridement and free drainage are key to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifan Li
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Chengfang Chen
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Huiming Yang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Rongjun Man
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shudong Yu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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22
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The Computed Tomography Findings and Follow-up Course of Pulmonary Nocardiosis. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2023; 47:418-423. [PMID: 36877779 DOI: 10.1097/rct.0000000000001439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to elucidate the computed tomography (CT) features and follow-up course of pulmonary nocardiosis patients to improve the understanding and diagnostic accuracy of this disease. METHODS The chest CT findings and clinical data of patients diagnosed with pulmonary nocardiosis by culture or histopathological examination in our hospital between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS A total of 34 cases of pulmonary nocardiosis were included in our study. Thirteen patients were on long-term immunosuppressant therapy, among whom 6 had disseminated nocardiosis. Among the immunocompetent patients, 16 had chronic lung diseases or a history of trauma. Multiple or solitary nodules represented the most common CT feature (n = 32, 94.12%), followed by ground-glass opacities (n = 26, 76.47%), patchy consolidations (n = 25, 73.53%), cavitations (n = 18, 52.94%), and masses (n = 11, 32.35%). There were 20 cases (61.76%) with mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy, 18 (52.94%) with pleural thickening, 15 (44.12%) with bronchiectasis, and 13 (38.24%) with pleural effusion. Significantly higher rates of cavitations were observed among immunosuppressed patients (85% vs 29%, P = 0.005). At follow-up, 28 patients (82.35%) clinically improved with treatment, while 5 (14.71%) had disease progression, and 1 (2.94%) died. CONCLUSIONS Chronic structural lung diseases and long-term immunosuppressant use were found as risk factors for pulmonary nocardiosis. While the CT manifestations were highly heterogeneous, clinical suspicion should be raised upon findings of coexisting nodules, patchy consolidations, and cavitations, particularly in the presence of extrapulmonary infections such as those of the brain and subcutaneous tissues. A significant incidence of cavitations may be observed among immunosuppressed patients.
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23
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Bellala MM, Tandra PS, Bagga B, Madduri B. Nocardia keratitis presenting as an anterior chamber ball of exudates and its management. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e251647. [PMID: 36810335 PMCID: PMC9945109 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-251647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
A man in late 40s presented with corneal ulcer of the right eye of 1 month duration. He had a central corneal epithelial defect measuring 4.6×4.2 mm with an underlying 3.6×3.5 mm anterior to mid stromal patchy infiltrate and 1.4 mm hypopyon. Gram stain of the colonies on chocolate agar showed presence of confluent thin branching, gram-positive beaded filaments, which were positive after 1% acid fast stain. This confirmed our organism to be Nocardia sp. Topical amikacin was started but continued worsening of the infiltrate and presence of a ball of exudates in the anterior chamber, prompted the use of systemic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. There was a dramatic improvement in the signs and symptoms, with complete resolution of infection over a period of 1 month.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maneesha Mohan Bellala
- Cornea and Anterior Segment, LV Prasad Eye Institute GMR Varalakshmi Campus, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Poornima Sharma Tandra
- Cornea and Anterior Segment, LV Prasad Eye Institute GMR Varalakshmi Campus, Visakhapatnam, India
| | | | - Bhagyashree Madduri
- Ocular Microbiology Service, LV Prasad Eye Institute GMR Varalakshmi Campus, Visakhapatnam, India
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Salazar Reinoso FR, Romero‐Santana GS, Mawyin Juez AE, Calderon Navas JA, Ronquillo Piloso AS. Brain abscess due to Nocardia asiatica in a 63-year-old patient with adult-onset still disease: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e6816. [PMID: 36644614 PMCID: PMC9834524 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.6816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral nocardiosis is a rare and opportunistic cerebral infection caused by Nocardia spp., a gram-positive, aerobic bacteria of the Actinomycetes order. Patients with cell-mediated immunodeficiencies are often targeted by this microorganism, for which early diagnosis and therapeutic approach are essential.
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25
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Li X, Zhuang S, He L, Wang S, Zhao M, Lyu X. Brain Abscess Caused by Nocardia brevicatena in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:7693-7697. [PMID: 36597454 PMCID: PMC9805727 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s396085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nocardia brain abscess is relatively rare and generally occurs in immunodeficient patients. Here, we present the first case of brain abscess due to Nocardia brevicatena in an immunocompetent patient, with unknown origin. In this case, a 49-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with limb twitching and complained of a history of intermittent headache. He was diagnosed with brain abscess through brain imaging and cured after craniotomy for abscess excision and targeted antibiotic treatment. Surgical specimens were sent for further detection. The causative organism was identified by weak acid-fast staining, culture and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). We hope this case could provide a reference for incoming patients as well as their clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shifang Zhuang
- Genskey Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin He
- Genskey Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shanmei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Lyu
- Central Laboratory, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Xiaodong Lyu, Central Laboratory, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, People’s Republic of China, Tel/Fax +8613523417973, Email
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26
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Septic arthritis by Nocardia farcinica: Case report and literature review. IDCases 2022; 31:e01668. [PMID: 36636461 PMCID: PMC9830148 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nocardiosis is a bacterial infection caused by organisms of the Nocardia genus. The disease typically involves the skin, central nervous system or pulmonary system. Very rarely nocardiosis can cause disease of other organs including bone and joints. Nocardiosis is typically a chronic, somewhat indolent infection, occurring in patients with defective cell mediated immunity. We describe a 78-year-old female with right shoulder septic arthritis resulting from Nocardia farcinica with associated involvement of her skin and lungs as well. She was treated with surgical debridement and combination antibiotic therapy. We also share a literature review of bone and joint infection caused by the N. farcinica species, highlighting its rarity. Understanding uncommon manifestations of nocardiosis allows for early recognition and treatment of the condition and optimal patient care.
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Epidemiology of Nocardia Species at a Tertiary Hospital in Southern Taiwan, 2012 to 2020: MLSA Phylogeny and Antimicrobial Susceptibility. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11101438. [PMID: 36290097 PMCID: PMC9598236 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11101438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and antimicrobial susceptibility of Nocardia spp. are essential for guiding antibiotic treatment. We investigated the species distribution and evaluated the antimicrobial susceptibility of Nocardia species collected in southern Taiwan from 2012 to 2020. A total of 77 Nocardia isolates were collected and identified to the species level using multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA). The susceptibilities to 15 antibiotics for Nocardia isolates were determined by the broth microdilution method, and the MIC50 and MIC90 for each antibiotic against different species were analyzed. N. cyriacigeorgica was the leading isolate, accounting for 32.5% of all Nocardia isolates, and the prevalence of Nocardia isolates decreased in summer. All of the isolates were susceptible to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, amikacin, and linezolid, whereas 90.9% were non-susceptible to cefepime and imipenem. The phylogenic tree by MLSA showed that the similarity between N. beijingensis and N. asiatica was as high as 99%, 73% between N. niigatensis and N. crassostreae, and 86% between N. cerradoensis and N. cyriacigeorgica. While trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, amikacin, and linezolid remained fully active against all of the Nocardia isolates tested, 90.9% of the isolates were non-susceptible to cefepime and imipenem.
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28
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Adre E, Maestre-Mesa J, Durkee H, Arboleda A, Flynn H, Amescua G, Parel JM, Miller D. Nocardia keratitis: amikacin nonsusceptibility, risk factors, and treatment outcomes. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2022; 12:11. [PMID: 35247126 PMCID: PMC8898206 DOI: 10.1186/s12348-022-00287-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the increasing trends in Nocardia keratitis species diversity and in vitro antibiotic susceptibility, to demonstrate contact lens wear as a risk factor, and to report visual acuity outcomes after treatment. METHODS A retrospective clinical case series was performed at a single academic referral center which identified 26 patients with culture-confirmed Nocardia keratitis between 2014 and 2021. A combination of conventional microbiology and molecular techniques were used to identify isolates. Antibiotic susceptibilities were determined using both commercial and in-house laboratory methods. Microbiology and electronic medical records were used to characterize patients' clinical profiles. RESULTS Patients' median age was 32.5 years with a 2:1 male to female ratio. Eighty-four percent (n = 21/25) of patients were diagnosed within two weeks of symptom onset. Nocardia amikacinitolerans (n = 11/26) was the most recovered Nocardia isolate among study patients. Sixty-four percent (n = 16/25) of all isolates, including all 11 N. amikacinitolerans isolates, were resistant to amikacin. All isolates were susceptible to trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole. Contact lens wear was the leading identified risk factor (n = 23/26) in this population. Median time to resolution was 44 days (n = 23, range: 3-190 days). Seventy-one percent of patients (n = 15/21) had a final visual acuity of 20/40 or better. CONCLUSION Amikacin resistant Nocardia isolates were the majority in the current study. Trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole may be the preferred alternative antibiotic treatment based on in vitro susceptibilities. Contact lens wear was the major risk factor for Nocardia keratitis in South Florida. Overall visual acuity treatment outcomes of patients were favorable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Adre
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jorge Maestre-Mesa
- Ocular Microbiology Laboratory, Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, McKnight Research Pavilions, Rm 103A,1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Heather Durkee
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Alejandro Arboleda
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Harry Flynn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Guillermo Amescua
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jean-Marie Parel
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Darlene Miller
- Ocular Microbiology Laboratory, Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, McKnight Research Pavilions, Rm 103A,1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA. .,Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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29
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Singh RK. Lymphocutaneous Nocardiosis in a Patient With Human Immunodeficiency/Tuberculosis Coinfection. Cureus 2022; 14:e22022. [PMID: 35282547 PMCID: PMC8909785 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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30
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Chandramohan D, Javeri H, Anstead GM. Septic arthritis due to Nocardia brasiliensis and a review of nocardiosis as a cause of arthritis. IDCases 2022; 29:e01590. [PMID: 35957806 PMCID: PMC9358448 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria of the genus Nocardia are implicated in several disease processes but are a rare cause of septic arthritis. Typically, the cause of Nocardia septic arthritis is dissemination from a pulmonary infection in an immunocompromised host. Herein we present a case of a 64-year-old male who had received a long course of prednisone for membranous nephropathy and developed a septic arthritis due to Nocardia brasiliensis. He was treated sequentially with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and amoxicillin-clavulanate, linezolid and amoxicillin-clavulanate, tigecycline and amoxicillin-clavulanate, and omadacycline and amoxicillin-clavulanate. To our knowledge, only two prior cases of Nocardia brasiliensis septic arthritis without antecedent trauma to the joint or local skin breakdown have been reported. A review of the literature identified 19 other cases of Nocardia septic arthritis. This case reinforces the need to consider Nocardia infection in the differential diagnosis in the immunocompromised patient with concurrent pulmonary infection and septic arthritis.
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31
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Meena DS, Kumar D, Bohra GK, Midha N, Garg MK. Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Outcome of Central Nervous System Nocardiosis: A Systematic Review of Reported Cases. Med Princ Pract 2022; 31:333-341. [PMID: 35700710 PMCID: PMC9485982 DOI: 10.1159/000525509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical spectrum of systemic nocardiosis encompasses pulmonary and disseminated disease. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is an important feature of disseminated disease with significant mortality and high relapse rate, especially in those with suppressed cell-mediated immunity. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and outcome in patients with CNS nocardiosis. METHODS A literature search was performed in major databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus) by using distinct keywords: "CNS disease," "Nocardia," "meningitis," "brain abscess," "disseminated disease," and "Cotrimoxazole." We included all patients ≥18 years with CNS nocardiosis reported between January 2000 and December 2020. RESULTS A total of 129 papers were included in the final analysis. The mean age of patients was 55 ± 16 years, and the majority were male (70.8%). Nocardia farcinica was the commonest species (39.6%), followed by Nocardia nova (5.9%). Thirty-four percent of the patients were found to be immunocompetent. Corticosteroid use was the most common predisposing factor (55.8%). Among neuroimaging findings, brain abscess was most common (86.9%), followed by leptomeningeal enhancement (12.1%). The overall case-fatality rate in CNS disease was 22.8%. On multivariate analysis, patients who underwent surgery (OR 2.4, 95% CI 0.99-4.11, p value 0.046) had better survival than those treated with antimicrobial therapy alone. Immunodeficient state (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.15-0.90, p value 0.019) was independently associated with poor outcome. CONCLUSION CNS nocardiosis carries significant mortality, especially in immunodeficient patients. We advocate the use of surgery combined with antimicrobials to improve clinical outcome.
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Check L, Ragunathan A, Scibelli N, Mangano A. Case of multi-drug resistant Nocardia nova as the causative agent of cervical spine osteomyelitis in an immunocompetent adult. IDCases 2022; 29:e01524. [PMID: 35769547 PMCID: PMC9234582 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of a 54-year-old immunocompetent female with cervical spine discitis and osteomyelitis secondary to Nocardia nova. Nocardia nova is overall an exceedingly rare cause of infectious diseases. In this case, the patient was admitted for neck and right shoulder pain. One year prior, she had lumbar osteomyelitis (L4-L5) that required laminectomy. Cultures at that time grew Staphylococcus schleiferi and she was treated with cefazolin for six weeks. Six months later she presented with cervical spine (C4-C5) discitis/osteomyelitis. She underwent surgical laminectomy, biopsy and culture, which grew Nocardia nova. The patient was treated with intravenous amikacin and then transitioned to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for a total of twelve months. Other case reports of spinal osteomyelitis secondary to nocardia describe treatment with antibiotics, surgical debridement plus or minus arthrodesis with favorable outcome in improving pain and functionality at 3 years.1 In our case, the patient completed the course of antibiotics and 6 months later, imaging of the cervical spine showed mild height loss at C4 and C5, however no significant acute changes in the cervical spine, epidural or prevertebral soft tissue collections. She continues with chronic neck pain but repeated MRI of the cervical spine at 2 years shows no evidence of osteomyelitis or soft tissue edema.
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Wu J, Li X, Zhang T, Lin X, Chen YC. Disseminated Nocardia farcinica involves the spinal cord: a case report and review of the literature. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:1224. [PMID: 34876035 PMCID: PMC8650257 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06905-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nocardia is a relatively rare opportunistic pathogenic bacteria group, commonly seen in patients with immunocompromised or defective immune system. It can affect multiple organs of the body and cause disseminated infection, among which most occurs in the lung, secondly in the nervous system, soft tissues, rare in the spinal cord and pituitary. No case has been reported involving lung, spinal cord, skin and pituitary gland at the same time. Case presentation We report a 55-year-old female with Nocardia infection involving the lung, skin, spinal cord, and pituitary gland. The patient underwent a full set of imaging examinations and showed typical imaging findings. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed multiple nodules with cavities in the lungs. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the vertebral body showed abnormal signal of the entire spinal cord with cavity formation and ring enhancement. The subcutaneous nodules of the abdomen were punctured under ultrasound. Through the etiological tissue culture of subcutaneous nodules and the second generation sequencing of cerebrospinal fluid, the diagnosis was finally confirmed. Conclusion Disseminated Nocardiosis is an uncommon disease. This article will report a rare case of disseminated Nocardiosis simultaneously involving the lung, spinal cord, subcutaneous soft tissue and pituitary gland, especially with neuropathy as the initial symptom. Imaging is helpful for the early diagnosis of the disease and pathological and microbiological examinations are helpful for its confirming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, No.68, Changle Road, Nanjing, 21006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing Gaochun People's Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, No.68, Changle Road, Nanjing, 21006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Lin
- Department of Laboratory, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Chen Chen
- Department of Radiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, No.68, Changle Road, Nanjing, 21006, People's Republic of China.
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Garofalo C, De Stefano F, Gjeloshi K, De Gregorio I, Masini F, Ricozzi C, Sasso FC, Sica A, Selvaggi L, Salvatore T. Very large abscesses of lower limbs by Nocardia farcinica requiring surgical management in patient with minimal change disease under chronic steroid treatment. Nephrology (Carlton) 2021; 26:843-844. [PMID: 34060180 DOI: 10.1111/nep.13905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Garofalo
- Nephrology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo De Stefano
- Nephrology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Klodian Gjeloshi
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria De Gregorio
- Nephrology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Masini
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Ricozzi
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Antonello Sica
- Haematology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Lucio Selvaggi
- Surgery Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Salvatore
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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