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Pelvic actinomycosis: a malignant appearing mass. A case report
Y Pirenne1, W Bouckaert, G Vangertruyden
1Department of Abdominal Surgery, Christelijk Algemeen Ziekenhuis Midden Limburg, Campus Salvator, Hasselt, Belgium.
Acta Chirurgica Belgica
|June 9, 2009
Summary
Pelvic actinomycosis, a rare complication of long-term intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) use, can mimic malignancy. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary radical surgery for this IUD-associated pelvic mass.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Pelvic actinomycosis is a rare infection, often associated with long-term intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) usage.
- It can present insidiously, posing diagnostic challenges due to its resemblance to malignant pelvic conditions.
Observation:
- A case of pelvic actinomycosis is presented in a woman with a 13-year history of IUD use.
- The condition manifested as a malignant-appearing pelvic mass with significant invasion into the sigmoid colon and left ureter, causing high-grade stenosis.
Findings:
- The patient underwent an urgent Hartmann procedure, including resection of the uterus and ovaries, due to the obstructive nature of the mass.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of actinomycosis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering pelvic actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis for women with IUDs presenting with pelvic masses that appear malignant.
- Timely and accurate diagnosis can prevent aggressive and potentially unnecessary surgical interventions, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
