This rare bacterial infection triggers pus-filled sores in the lungs and brain

A multi-colored microscope image of tissue infected with nocardiosis. The image is mainly pink and purple in color. .

Disease name: Nocardiosis

Affected populations: Nocardiosis is a rare but potentially deadly infectious disease caused by bacteria in the genus Nocardia. Nocardiosis is an opportunistic infection, meaning it doesn't typically affect healthy people but may seize the chance to infect people with weakened immune systems, such as people with cancer or HIV/AIDS, as well as organ transplant recipients who are taking immunosuppressive drugs.