An Unusual Case of Cerebral Nocardiosis Masquerading as Tuberculosis

Abstract

This is a report of a unique case of cerebral nocardiosis in an immunocompetent host who was initially diagnosed with extra pulmonary tuberculosis not responding to 1st line anti tubercular treatment (ATT). The deteriorating abscess required multiple drainage procedures before the correct diagnosis was clinched by microbiological analysis. Cerebral nocardiosis is a rare entity, typically occurs in immunocompromised host and is associated with poor prognosis. As it can be easily confused with tuberculosis, a high index of clinical suspicion and supporting microbiological evidence is essential for the correct diagnosis.