Gram-positive Organisms (5) Nocardia vs Actinomyces: Both are gram ⊕ and form long, branching filaments resembling fungi Nocardia Aerobe Acid fast (weak) Found in soil Causes pulmonary infections in immunocompromised with CNS involvement (can mimic TB but with (- PPD) cutaneous infections after trauma in immunocompetent Treat with sulfonamides (TMP-SMX)
Actinomyces Anaerobe Not acid fast Normal oral, reproductive, and Gl flora Causes oral/facial abscesses that drain through sinus tracts, forms yellow "sulfur granules;" can also cause PID with IUDs Treat with penicillin