Abstract

In this paper, splenic abscess due to Brucella sp., a rare complication, in a 49-year-old male with pemphigus treated by azathioprine for five years, is presented. The rose Bengal and Brucella tube agglutination tests were positive and Brucella sp. grew in blood culture. Abdominal tomography revealed hepatosplenomegaly and a few microabscesses in the spleen. A combination of doxycycline, rifampin and co-trimoxazole was started. Azathioprine treatment was stopped. As in our patient, use of immunosupressive drugs or any immunosupressive disease or condition may facilitate the emergence of complications due to brucellosis. Therefore, patients with brucellosis need to be closely followed for possible complications, especially in the era of increasing immunosuppressive usage. Therapeutic modifications such as discontinuation or dose adjustment of immunosuppressive drugs need to be considered, where appropriate.