Tamponade due to Rhodococcus equi in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Infection with Rhodococcus equi has been described as a cause of cavitary pneumonia in AIDS patients. We report such a case, complicated by bacteremia, tamponade, and possible brain and liver abscesses. Medical treatment was successful with pericardiocentesis and antibiotherapy with teicoplanin, gentamicin, clarythro-mycin, rifampicin, supplemented by empirical treatment of cerebral toxoplasmosis. Antibiotherapy was terminated after 6 months, without relapse 2 months later.