[Endometrial actinomycosis. Two case reports]

Samia Chatti1, Khédija Bellil, Selma Bellil

  • 1Service d'Anatomie et de Cytologie Pathologiques, Hôpital la Rabta, Tunis, Tunisie.

La Tunisie Medicale
|April 24, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Pelvic actinomycosis, a rare endometrial infection caused by Actinomyces bacteria, is presented in two women. One case involved long-term intrauterine device use, highlighting a potential risk factor for this uncommon condition.

Area of Science:

  • Gynecology
  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Actinomyces are Gram-positive, aerobic bacteria typically found as commensal organisms in the female genital tract.
  • Endometrial involvement by Actinomyces is exceptionally rare, with limited reported cases in medical literature.

Observation:

  • Two cases of pelvic actinomycosis are described in postmenopausal women aged 58 and 55.
  • The second patient had a history of using an intrauterine device (IUD) for 11 years, suggesting a potential association.

Findings:

  • The study highlights the rare occurrence of Actinomyces infection within the endometrium, leading to pelvic actinomycosis.
  • The prolonged use of an intrauterine device may be a predisposing factor for the development of this infection.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of pelvic actinomycosis is crucial for gynecologists and infectious disease specialists.
  • Further research may be warranted to elucidate the role of intrauterine devices in the pathogenesis of Actinomyces infections.