Both are gram ⊕ and form long, branching filaments resembling fungi

Nocardia:- Aerob- Acid fast (weak)- Found in soil- Pulmonary infections in immunocompromised (can mimic TB but with Θ PDD)- Cutaneous infections after trauma in immunocompetent- Can spread to CNS

Actinomyces:- Anaerobe- Not acid fast- Normal oral, reproductive, and GI flora- Causes oral/facial abscesses that drain through sinus tracts- Often associated with dental caries/extraction and other maxillofacial trauma- Forms yellow "sulfur granules"- Can also cause PID with IUDs

Treatment:- Nocardia: Sulphonamides - Actinomyces: Penicillin