Case Report

Spontaneous Resolution of Rhodococcal Pulmonary Infection in a Liver Transplant Recipient

Authors: ROBERT J. SCHILZ DO, MANI S. KAVURU MD, GERI HALL PhD, EUGENE WINKELMAN MD

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Pulmonary infection by Rhodococcus equi is characterized by indolent infection in an immunocompromised host with a propensity to form cavitary lesions. Mortality can be greater than 50%; treatment involves prolonged therapy with multiple antibiotics and, occasionally, surgical resection. Recurrence is common. We report a case of a liver transplant patient with a pulmonary nodule caused by R equi; the nodule followed a benign clinical course and resolved spontaneously. This case illustrates that the spectrum of disease caused by R equi is not fully appreciated and that significant pitfalls complicate the diagnosis and management of infection by this unusual and probably underrecognized pathogen.

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References