Actinomyces: An Under Appreciated Cause of Postoperative Infection in Rhinoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To discuss a case series of Actinomyces infection post-rhinoplasty and review the literature for correct diagnosis and management. STUDY DESIGN: Case series with chart review. METHODS: Three cases are presented of patients with a history of recurrent infectious symptoms post revision rhinoplasty later being diagnosed as Actinomyces. RESULTS: Three patients were identified having undergone revision rhinoplasty and later being diagnosed with Actinomyces infection. They initially presented with underwhelming physical exams, mild erythema, slight swelling, yet extreme pain. They also had periods of recurrent infection once antibiotics were stopped. Aerobic, anaerobic, fungal, and Actinomyces cultures were sent to pathology and returned positive for Actinomyces. Treatment typically involved a combination of prolonged antibiotics, incision and drainage, and/or surgical debridement. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness of Actinomyces as a possible cause of infection post-rhinoplasty is significant as this pathogen can lead to extensive tissue destruction and fistula formation which could be detrimental for a rhinoplasty. Duration of treatment is beyond typical lengths for other infections and a specific culture for Actinomyces is required to be sent as it isn't captured in standard aerobic/anaerobic cultures. Therefore, a high index of suspicion is required by physicians to ensure that patients are evaluated thoroughly. Laryngoscope, 133:2948-2950, 2023.

Unusual gingival actinomycosis post allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplant: case report.

BACKGROUND: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT) is used to treat several hematological diseases, but immunosuppression during allo-HSCT facilitates opportunistic microbial growth in tissues, such as actinomycosis. An effective diagnosis of opportunistic diseases is essential for correct management of the disease and preservation of the immunosuppressed patient's life. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 57-year-old female patient was diagnosed with extranodal nasal type NK/T cell lymphoma and underwent curative treatment with allo-HSCT. Twenty-one days after the last clinical follow-up, the patient presented a necrotizing lesion in the papilla region between the first and second molars of the second quadrant. Histopathological analysis showed the presence of a bacterial cluster consistent with Actinomyces infection, and a dense lymphoid infiltrate was also observed. Immunohistochemistry for CD20, CD3, and CD56 was performed to exclude the possibility of the recurrence of extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma. Oral microbiota profiling showed a huge increase in the abundance of Actinomyces bacteria in the subgingival region three weeks prior to appearance of the lesion. CONCLUSIONS: Opportunistic infections with an unusual clinical appearance are confounding factors in therapeutic decision-making. We present for the first time a case of actinomycosis in the gingival papilla region following allo-HSCT. We also highlight how microbiota profiling through next-generation sequencing could be used to anticipate bacterial infection diagnosis.

Esophageal Actinomycosis in an Immunocompetent Patient Mimicking Carcinoma: A Case Report.

Esophageal actinomycosis is a rare occurrence that presents a diagnostic challenge due to its vague clinical picture. The common symptoms include dysphagia, odynophagia and epigastric pain. These symptoms, although alarming, are usually non-specific. In this report, we describe an immunocompetent 38-year-old woman who presented with dysphagia and burning chest pain. Her initial examination and investigations suggested carcinoma of the oesophagus. On further evaluation and histopathology examination, she was diagnosed with esophageal actinomycosis and managed with antibiotics and symptomatic relief. She had significant improvement on follow up examination. The diagnosis of this condition in an immunocompetent patient can be confusing and requires a high degree of suspicion. Keywords: actinomycosis; carcinoma; case reports; esophagus.

A rare cause of acute abdominal pain: Actinomyces infection of colon mimicking a malignant neoplasm due to intrauterine device.

Actinomycosis is a rare, chronic granulomatous disease that is challenging to diagnose because the clinical symptoms and signs are nonspecific. Usage of intrauterine device (IUD) or being immunocompromised is facilitating factors. Clinical and radiological findings can mimic malignant neoplasm, inflammatory bowel disorder, or acute diverticulitis. We report a case of actinomyces infection of the colon secondary to IUD, which is a rare cause of acute abdominal pain and can mimic a malignant neoplasm. We also provide a review of the literature. Unnecessary surgery can be avoided with the correct diagnosis of granulomatous infectious diseases that can be treated with antibiotics.

[Radiological abnormalities and long-term IUD use: think of actinomycosis]. / Intra-abdominale massa's en een intra-uterien device.

BACKGROUND: A rare cause of nonspecific, chronic abdominal pain is actinomycosis. Extensive disease can cause chronic peritonitis mimicking malignancy. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 59-year-old women presented with aspecific chronic abdominal pain, after 23 years of IUD use. Imaging showed two solid masses in the abdomen suggestive of malignant disease. Additional diagnostic procedures did not prove malignancy and biopsies showed chronic inflammation. In the absence of proof of malignancy and with regard to the long-term IUD use, actinomycosis was considered. A Pap smear showed Actinomyces 5 years earlier. Antibiotic treatment was instituted and remission of the intra-abdominal masses was seen after six months of treatment. CONCLUSION: Consider actinomycosis in a patient presenting with abdominal pain and (long-term) IUD use. Diagnosis is challenging and frequently impossible to confirm before treatment. This diagnosis should be considered after thorough workup for other diseases, especially malignancy. After such analysis, starting antibiotic therapy could prevent secondary complications and invasive procedures.

Actinomicosis pélvica invasiva: un desafío para el ginecólogo / Invasive pelvic actinomycosis: a challenge for the gynecologist

Resumen La actinomicosis pélvica es una infección bacteriana supurativa crónica, producida por especies de Actinomyces, principalmente Actinomyces israelii, que afecta el aparato genital interno y las estructuras vecinas, asociada al uso prolongado de dispositivo intrauterino sin control en casi la totalidad de los casos descritos en mujeres. La actinomicosis pélvica suele presentarse como un absceso tubo-ovárico y con menor frecuencia como una actinomicosis pélvica invasiva (API). La API se propaga por contigüidad desde el aparato genital hacia las vísceras adyacentes, originando un tumor pélvico difuso, de consistencia leñosa, pseudotumoral, que a menudo se confunde con una neoplasia pélvica. La API representa un gran desafío para el ginecólogo por las dificultades en su diagnóstico y manejo. Se presentan dos casos de API y se revisan los procedimientos diagnósticos y terapéuticos recomendados actualmente para el enfrentamiento de esta patología.

Abstract Pelvic actinomycosis (PA) is a chronic suppurative bacterial infection, produced by Actinomyces, mainly Actinomyces israelii. It affects the internal genital tract, adjacent structures and is associated with a prolonged intrauterine device use with an inadequate control in almost all described cases in women. Pelvic actinomycosis usually presents as a tube ovarian abscess and less frequently as invasive pelvic actinomycosis (IPA). The IPA spreads contiguously from the genital tract to adjacent viscera, causing a diffuse, woody, pseudotumoral pelvic tumor that is frequently confused with a pelvic neoplasm. The IPA represents a great challenge for the gynecologist due to the difficulties in the diagnosis and management of this disease. Two cases of IPA are presented and the currently recommended diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for dealing with this pathology are reviewed.

Cervicofacial actinomycosis following third molar removal: case-series and review.

Actinomycosis is an opportunistic infection caused by bacteria of the Actinomyces spp., commonly A. israelii. These are non-pathogenic commensals in the mouth, gut, and female genital tract. An infection may arise following trauma or surgery, such as tooth extraction. More than half of cases of actinomycosis occur in the perimandibular area and are termed cervicofacial actinomycosis. Initially, the infection develops as a painful, rapidly progressive swelling. The lesion may then indurate and is often painless while the overlying skin discolors red to purple-blue. Prolonged treatment with antibiotics and surgery are often required for resolution, unless treatment is promptly started. However, diagnosis may be delayed or missed because of difficult bacterial culturing and frequent confusion with malignancy and other infections. This case study describes six patients who developed cervicofacial actinomycosis following third molar extraction. The purpose of this study is to inform clinicians on this stubborn and deceitful disease entity and to highlight the importance of clinical recognition for quick resolution with minimal morbidity.

Actinomicosis pélvica: a propósito de un caso que simula un tumor de recto / Pelvic actinomycosis: from a case that simulates rectal tumor

Resumen Introducción: La actinomicosis, es una infección crónica rara producida por bacterias del género Actinomyces sp. La afectación pélvica es una de sus formas más infrecuentes y en gran parte de los casos se relaciona al uso de un dispositivo intrauterino de larga data o a una cirugía previa. Como otras enfermedades raras, la infección es conocida como "la gran imitadora" por su variada forma de presentación y particular comportamiento pudiendo simular una neoplasia. El tratamiento es fundamentalmente médico y de buenos resultados. Caso Clínico: Damos a conocer el caso de una paciente que se presentó con un cuadro compatible con un tumor de recto, pero que resultó ser actinomicosis. El diagnóstico se realizó en base a la tinción de Gram, el cuadro clínico y el antecedente de un dispositivo intrauterino abandonado por más de 25 años. Fue corroborado posteriormente mediante anatomía patológica y tratada en forma exitosa con antibióticos por un periodo extendido. Conclusión: Si bien la actinomicosis es una patología infrecuente, debe ser considerada en el diagnóstico diferencial de los pacientes que se presentan con tumores de la pelvis. Un alto índice de sospecha y una actitud diagnóstica activa son fundamentales para un tratamiento oportuno, seguro y eficaz de esta enfermedad.

Introduction: Actinomycosis is a rare chronic infection caused by bacterias of the genus Actinomyces sp. Pelvic involvement is one of its most infrequent forms and in many cases it is related to the use of a longstanding intrauterine device or a previous surgery. Like other rare diseases, the infection is known as "the great imitator" because of its varied form of presentation and its particular behavior, which can simulate a neoplasm. The treatment is fundamentally medical with good results. Case Report: We present the case of a patient who presented with a rectal tumor but that turned out to be Actinomycosis. The diagnosis was made based on the Gram stain, the clinical presentation and the history of an intrauterine device left for more than 25 years. It was subsequently corroborated by pathological anatomy and successfully treated with antibiotics for an extended period. Conclusion: Although actinomycosis is an infrequent pathology, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with tumors of the pelvis. An active diagnostic attitude and a high index of suspicion are fundamental for the timely, safe and effective treatment of this disease.

[Esophageal actinomycosis in patients with HIV infection]. / Actinomicosis esofágica en pacientes con infección por VIH.

Esophageal pathology is common in patients with HIV, frequently due to Candida, cytomegalovirus or herpes virus. However, esophageal actinomycosis is a rare infection, even in patients with HIV. We report the case of a 33-year-old male patient, with a recent diagnosis of HIV who was admitted for fever, odynophagia, dysphagia and retrosternal pain. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy evidenced multiple esophageal ulcers and the histopathological report of the esophageal biopsy described a chronic esophagitis with colonies of PAS positive bacilli, compatible with Actinomyces, initiating favorable antimicrobial therapy. Although it is an uncommon disease, about one-third of cases of esophageal actinomycosis occur in patients with HIV infection, and endoscopic biopsies are required to define diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Isolated Actinomycosis of the Hard Palate Incurred Subsequent to Local Anesthesia.

Tissue necrosis associated with local anesthesia and actinomycosis is rare. Here, the authors present management of excessive palatal necrosis associated with local anesthesia and actinomycotic infection. In oral surgery a simple procedure can lead to severe complications. Thus, preformation of any surgical procedure with a rigorous manner preferably by a qualified clinician may prevent the occurrence of this type of complications.

Actinomycotic Endomyometritis Associated with a Long-Term Use of Intrauterine Device Lasting for 42 Years.

In women, pelvic actinomycosis is closely associated with prolonged use of the intrauterine devices (IUD). A 70-year old female presented with intermittent blood-stained vaginal discharge. An analysis of her history revealed, she was inserted with an IUD 42 years ago, but it has remained in situ untill now. Curettage of the uterus was done, but an IUD was firmly attached inside the cavity and there was not able to remove it. A biopsy material consisted of the large round and oval granules of filamentous and mycelium-like microorganisms. They showed strong positivity with Periodic acid-Schiff stain and Gömöri methenamine silver stain. Histopathology was consisted with uterine actinomycosis. A total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy was performed. The uterus contained a retained plastic IUD. Microscopic investigation revealed a diffuse chronic active endomyometritis with sporadic Actinomycetes colonies. Wearing an IUD continuously for very long periods of time can lead to actinomycotic infection, which may manifest for many years after its application. All IUD users have to keep in mind regular gynecological check-ups to avoid the complications of a retained and "forgotten" IUD.

Actinomicosis esofágica en pacientes con infección por VIH / Esophageal actinomycosis in patients with HIV infection

La patología esofágica es común en pacientes con VIH, frecuentemente debido a Candida, citomegalovirus o virus herpes simple. Sin embargo, la actinomicosis esofágica es una infección rara, incluso en pacientes con infección VIH. Reportamos el caso en un paciente varón de 33 años, con diagnóstico reciente de VIH que acudió a consulta por fiebre, odinofagia, disfagia y dolor retroesternal. La endoscopia digestiva alta evidenció múltiples úlceras esofágicas y el informe histopatológico de la biopsia esofágica describió una esofagitis crónica con presencia de colonias de bacilos PAS positivos, compatibles con Actinomyces, iniciando tratamiento antimicrobiano con evolución favorable. Aunque es una enfermedad no común, cerca de un tercio de los casos de actinomicosis esofágica se presentan en pacientes con infección VIH, y es preciso el estudio endoscópico con toma de biopsia para definir el diagnóstico y manejo apropiado.

Esophageal pathology is common in patients with HIV, frequently due to Candida, cytomegalovirus or herpes virus. However, esophageal actinomycosis is a rare infection, even in patients with HIV. We report the case of a 33-year-old male patient, with a recent diagnosis of HIV who was admitted for fever, odynophagia, dysphagia and retrosternal pain. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy evidenced multiple esophageal ulcers and the histopathological report of the esophageal biopsy described a chronic esophagitis with colonies of PAS positive bacilli, compatible with Actinomyces, initiating favorable antimicrobial therapy. Although it is an uncommon disease, about one-third of cases of esophageal actinomycosis occur in patients with HIV infection, and endoscopic biopsies are required to define diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Neck stiffness in a post-irradiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma adult: An unusual diagnosis.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a neoplasm commonly found in population of South East Asia. The mainstay of treatment is high dose irradiation. Complications from radiotherapy are not uncommon especially to those nearby structures such as vertebrae and spinal cord. A 57 year-old gentleman with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) who was treated with chemo-radiation (total of 35 fractions,70Gy) presented to us 6 months post therapy with bilateral nasal discharge and progressive neck stiffness. Nasoendoscopy showed inflamed nasophayngeal mucosa and Computed Tomography (CT) brain and cervical spine showed retropharyngeal and anterior epidural collection with extension into atlantoaxial bone and spinal cord compression. Histopathological specimen revealed features of chronic inflammations with multiple actinomycetes colonies. Our patient suffered severe neck stiffness and loss of sensations on both upper limbs. He was treated conservatively with Halo vest and intravenous antibiotics for 8 weeks and recovered fully. Irradiation in NPC is known to cause devastating complications to cervical spine such as osteoradionecrosis, osteomyelitis. It also renders tissues hypoxic and risk of getting rare infection like actinomycosis. This report can represent a great diagnostic and therapeutic challenge with differentials of tumor recurrence, osteoradionecrosis or osteomyelitis. Patients must be regularly followed up to look for possible cervical complications as a result from irradiation, to prevent devastating outcome or prognosis.

Actinomycosis presenting as an anterior abdominal mass after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Abdominal actinomycosis is a rare disease caused by different anaerobic Actinomyces species. We report the case of a 55-year-old woman who presented with a painless, slow growing, left upper abdominal mass that developed after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A CT scan and MRI of the abdomen revealed a desmoid tumour of the left rectus abdominis muscle.Surgical excision was performed with an uneventful postoperative course. The histological analysis of the specimen was inconsistent with a desmoid tumour and revealed an infection of Actinomyces israelii in the anterior abdominal wall that was confirmed with a microbiology culture. The surgical treatment was followed by a course of penicillin antibiotic therapy for 6 months. This treatment resulted in full recovery with no further complications. Although it is rare, the patient's history of laparoscopic cholecystectomy was identified as the likely source of infection.

[Genital actinomycosis and pelvic abscesses in a woman with a 13-year-old intrauterine device].

A 55-year-old woman who had had the same intrauterine device (IUD) for 13 years was referred to the gynaecology outpatient clinic due to constitutional symptoms, abdominal pain and vaginal discharge. Diagnostic imaging showed multiple pelvic abscesses, and severe chronic endometritis with Actinomyces was found in an endometrial biopsy. The patient underwent surgical drainage of the accessible abscesses and started long-term antibiotic treatment. This case report illustrates that actinomycosis is an important differential diagnosis in symptomatic women with IUD and suspected gynaecologic malignancy.

The Non-Innoculous Hilar Calcification: Recurrent Pneumonia Secondary to Broncholith-Associated Actinomyces.

Dystrophic calcification of hilar lymph nodes is a common response to chronic inflammation related to several etiologies and rarely is associated with any clinical findings. A clinical scenario related to these calcified lymph nodes can thus be delayed by the low clinical suspicion associated with such a presumably innocuous finding. Normal respiratory movements however, can cause erosion into adjacent bronchi leading to a broncholith, complications of which can result in morbidity. We illustrate one of these complications, a partial obstruction with subsequent recurrent infection due to normal oral flora - actinomyces.