Cutaneous nocardiosis manifesting as a frontal mass in a patient with giant cell arteritis

Clujul Med. 2017;90(2):231-234. doi: 10.15386/cjmed-726. Epub 2017 Apr 25.

Abstract

We report the case of a subcutaneous abscess due to Nocardia spp. mimicking a spontaneous hematoma or an aneurysm of the temporal artery branch, in a giant cell arteritis patient treated with methylprednisolone and azathioprine. Ultrasonography, incision and drainage with cultures helped in the diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in immunosuppressed patients, besides the more frequent disease complications.

Keywords: giant cell arteritis; nocardiosis; subcutaneous abscess.

Publication types

  • Case Reports