Rare Bacterial Infection Causes Pus-Filled Sores in Lungs and Brain: What You Need to Know

Nocardiosis is a rare yet potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the Nocardia bacteria. Typically, it affects individuals with weakened immune systems, including those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, or organ transplant recipients. Interestingly, 20% to 30% of cases occur in patients with no identifiable pre-existing conditions, highlighting that nocardiosis can impact a wider demographic, particularly men over 40.

How do people contract this infection? Nocardia bacteria thrive in soil and decaying plant matter. Infection usually happens through inhalation of dust or through cuts contaminated with these microbes. Most commonly, nocardiosis manifests as lung infections, leading to pus-filled abscesses and symptoms like chest pain, cough (occasionally with blood), sweats, chills, and severe fatigue.

The stakes are high; without treatment, the disease can result in organ failure or sepsis, contributing to mortality rates between 16% and 40%. If the infection reaches the brain, the death rate skyrockets to over 80%. Treatment typically involves antibiotics over a duration of six to twelve months, and in stubborn cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address abscesses.

Understanding nocardiosis is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment, especially given its severity, and particularly for vulnerable populations.