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[Abdomino-pelvic actinomycosis. Report of 2 cases]

Neziha Belkahla1, Slimene Ourak, Hajer Ouerghi

  • 1Service de Gastro-entérologie B, Hôpital La Rabta.

La Tunisie Medicale
|November 10, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Abdomino-pelvic actinomycosis, a bacterial infection, presents variably and can mimic cancer. Early diagnosis through methods like skin biopsies is crucial for effective treatment and avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Actinomycosis is a chronic bacterial infection caused by gram-positive Actinomyces israeli.
  • Cervico-facial actinomycosis is the most common form, but abdomino-pelvic cases are increasing, particularly with intrauterine device use.
  • Abdomino-pelvic actinomycosis presents with diverse symptoms, often mimicking malignancy or tuberculosis, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

  • Two cases of abdomino-pelvic actinomycosis are presented.
  • The first case involved extension to the cecum and abdominal wall, with diagnosis achieved via skin biopsies, averting surgery.
  • The second case was diagnosed post-operatively due to suspicion of pelvic cancer.

Findings:

  • Skin biopsies can be instrumental in diagnosing actinomycosis, potentially avoiding invasive surgical exploration.
  • High clinical suspicion is necessary for diagnosing abdomino-pelvic actinomycosis, as it can present insidiously.
  • Diagnostic challenges underscore the need for awareness of actinomycosis in differential diagnoses for abdominal and pelvic masses.

Implications:

  • This review highlights the importance of considering actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis of abdomino-pelvic conditions.
  • Non-invasive diagnostic methods like skin biopsy should be explored to facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
  • Understanding the pathogenesis, clinical spectrum, and diagnostic/therapeutic options is vital for managing this challenging infection.

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