Sub-cutaneous abscess caused by Nocardia asteroides in renal transplant recipient.

Nocardia is a significant opportunistic pathogen in patients with compromised immunity. Nocardia asteroides was isolated from subcutaneous abscesses on the left thigh and shoulder of a renal transplant recipient. Direct examination of the aspirated pus showed branching filaments that were gram-positive and acid fast. The abscesses were drained and the patient responded to high dose co-trimoxazole therapy.