Nocardial scleritis: A case report and a suggested algorithm for disease management based on a literature review

Purpose: To report a case of nocardial scleritis and to propose a logical treatment algorithm based on a literature review. Observations: It is important to suspect a nocardial infection when evaluating anterior unilateral scleritis accompanied by multiple purulent or necrotic abscesses, especially in male patients with a history of chronic ocular pain and redness, trauma inflicted by organic materials, or recent ophthalmic surgery. A microbiological investigation is essential. In positive cases, a direct smear reveals weakly acid-fast organisms or Gram-positive, thin, beading and branching filaments. Also, the organism (usually) grows on blood agar and Lowenstein–Jensen plates. An infection can generally be fully resolved by debridement of necrotic areas and application of topical amikacin drops accompanied by systemic sulfamethoxazole–trimethoprim. Conclusions and significance: Together with the case report described, we review data on a total of 43 eyes with nocardial scleritis. Our proposed algorithm may afford a useful understanding of this sight-threatening disease, facilitating easier and faster diagnosis and management. Keywords: Nocardia, Microbiology, Infection, Scleral disease, Necrotizin