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[IUD-associated abdominopelvic actinomycosis]
E Anteby1, A Milvidsky, R Goshen
1Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-University Hospital, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem.
Harefuah
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Abdominopelvic actinomycosis, a rare infection, can occur with intrauterine device (IUD) use. Diagnosis often requires surgery due to severe abdominal pain or suspected pelvic malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) are widely used for birth control.
- Abdominopelvic actinomycosis is a rare, chronic bacterial infection.
- The association between IUDs and actinomycosis is recognized but infrequently diagnosed.
Observation:
- Three women aged 33, 44, and 52 years presented with symptoms suggestive of abdominopelvic actinomycosis.
- Clinical presentations included severe abdominal pain and signs of an acute abdomen, or prolonged lower abdominal pain.
- Diagnostic challenges were noted, often requiring exploratory laparotomy.
Findings:
- Abdominopelvic actinomycosis was confirmed in all three cases.
- The presence of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) was a common factor.
- The condition mimicked other serious pathologies, including pelvic malignancy.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of this association is crucial for timely diagnosis.
- Clinicians should consider actinomycosis in women with IUDs presenting with relevant abdominal symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment can prevent extensive surgical intervention and complications.