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Nocardiosis Treatment:
Long-term antibiotic therapy (usually with sulfonamides) for 6 months to a year (or longer depending on the individual and site involved) is needed to treat nocardia. Frequently, chronic suppressive therapy may be needed (prolonged, low-dose antibiotic therapy). Text Continues Below
In addition, in patients with abscesses caused by this infection, surgery may be required in order to ensure adequate drainage. Expectations (prognosis):
Prognosis depends on the sites involved. There is a significant mortality rate if more than 1 site is involved (disseminated nocardiosis). In addition, the degree of impairment of the individual's immune system will affect the outcome. Complications:
Complications of nocardial infections are varied and depend on the site involved. Certain lung infections may lead to scarring, chronic shortness of breath; skin infections may lead to scarring, disfigurement; brain abscesses may lead to loss of neurological function. Calling your health care provider:
Notify your medical provider if you have any of the symptoms described above -- these are non-specific and may have numerous causes other than nocardial infections. Alert your provider if you have symptoms involving the lung, skin, or brain in any combination -- in particular if you have a weakened immune system -- as you should be evaluated for several potential infections, including nocardia.
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