Rhodococcus bacteremia in an immunocompetent patient

Abstract

Rhodococcus species are uncommon opportunistic pathogens in humans; they are most commonly isolated from immunocompromised patients presenting with severe cavitating pulmonary infections. We present a case of Rhodococcus bacteremia in an immunocompetent patient. Although Rhodococcus species have distinctive colony morphology and Gram stain characteristics, they may be under-recognized or misinterpreted as normal flora in the clinical microbiology laboratory. Presumptive identification of these organisms is important to ensure appropriate empiric antimicrobial therapy.