Clinical features: The common clinical entities of deep fungal infections are Nocardiosis and Actinomycosis. Actinomycosis is caused by actinomyces. Its clinical features depend on the infected site. There is induration in the skin, sinus formation, pain and when lungs are involved there is cough with purulent sputum. Nocardiosis is an acute or subacute or chronic infection by nocardia species whose clinical features are mainly in the lungs and may include pneumonia, fever and a productive cough.
Treatment guidelines
Tetracycline 500 mg every 6 hours for 2-4 months for Actinomycosis.
CAUTION: Tetracycline should not be given to pregnant women and children under 12 years of age. |
Alternative drugs (also for Actinomycosis)
Adults |
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (O) 500 mg every 6 hours 2-4 months |
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Co-trimoxazole 480 mg every 12 hours for 2-4 months for Nocardiosis |
Children |
Phenoxymethylpenicillin (O) 25 mg/kg body weight 6 hourly for 2-4 months |
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Co-trimoxazole (O) syrup 0.5 ml/kg body weight every 12 hours for 2-4 months. |
NOTE Regular blood examination must be done when Co-trimoxazole is used for more than 14 days |
Alternative drug for Nocardiosis
Adult |
Dapsone 100 mg every 24 hours for 2-4 months. |
Children |
Dapsone 25 - 50 mg every 24 hours for 2 - 4 months. |
