Splenic abscesses caused by Actinomyces meyeri in a patient with autoimmune hepatitis

We report a case of actinomycosis with uncommon localizations that was due to Actinomyces meyeri. Although penicillin is the standard treatment for this condition, our patient was treated successfully with imipenem. Actinomyces organisms are important constituents of the normal flora of mucous membranes and are considered opportunistic pathogens; these organisms may produce infection after local trauma, surgery, or aspiration. The mains forms of actinomycosis are cervicofacial, thoracic, and abdominal; most cases are due to Actinomyces israelii, whereas other Actinomyces species are occasionally implicated. Actinomycosis usually occurs in immunocompetent persons, but may occur in persons with diminished host defenses.