Narrow Results

A case of primary Nocardial infection of the hand is presented. This case was notable for lymphocutaneous involvement, and the development of multiple ascending subcutaneous abscesses after healing of the primary lesion. This clinical entity is uncommon, and indicates an atypical infection. Prolonged cultures are required to isolate Nocardia. The infection resolved fully with multiple surgical debridements and prolonged antibiotic therapy.

We present a case of recurrent cutaneous nocardiosis following a high pressure air injection injury which was treated conservatively. The patient subsequently developed multiple chronic granulomatous nodules in the palm and dorsum of the hand requiring repeated surgical debridements and long term antibiotics for complete resolution. Some reports suggest that high pressure injection injuries of air or water run a benign course and may be treated conservatively. However, inoculation by high pressure injection injury of air or water may result in chronic infections, which cause significant morbidity and are a therapeutic challenge. Although uncommon, they may be avoided by adherence to established treatment principles which include prompt recognition, realisation of its severity and aggressive treatment by open wound management, even for seemingly innocuous trauma or inoculum.