[A false peritoneal carcinomatosis]

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Abdominal actinomycosis is an uncommon peritoneal infection caused by Actinomyces bacteria, typically found in the digestive and genital tracts.
• These bacteria can form tumor-like masses in the peritoneum, often misdiagnosed as neoplastic disease.

Observation:

• A 43-year-old woman presented with feverish bowel obstruction, a rare manifestation of abdominal actinomycosis.
• Laparotomy revealed multiple peritoneal nodes, leading to a diagnosis via histologic study.

Findings:

• Histologic examination confirmed abdominal actinomycosis, identifying the presence of Actinomyces bacteria.
• The patient's condition was successfully treated with a prolonged course of antibiotics.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering unusual infections like abdominal actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses and obstructions.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential for favorable patient outcomes in abdominal actinomycosis.
• Further research into the pathogenesis and optimal management strategies for abdominal actinomycosis may improve clinical practice.