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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
11:17
Thoracoscopic Extended Right Middle Plus Lower Sleeve Lobectomy for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: February 27, 2026
A thoracic mass infiltrating the chest wall
A Petroianni1, V Conti, C Terzano
1Department of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences, Respiratory Diseases Unit, Sapienza University of Rome, Fondazione E. Lorillard Spencer Cenci, Rome, Italy. angelo.petroianni@uniroma1.it
Summary
This report details a rare case of thoracic actinomycosis, a bacterial infection mimicking lung cancer. Prompt diagnosis using imaging and histology is crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Thoracic actinomycosis is a rare bacterial infection caused by Actinomyces, a gram-positive filamentous bacterium.
- Approximately 15% of Actinomyces infections manifest in the thorax, often presenting as a chest wall mass.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to contiguous spread and systemic involvement.
Observation:
- A case is presented where a thoracic mass infiltrated the chest wall, initially resembling a pulmonary invasive neoplasm.
- Radiological and histological imaging played a critical role in differentiating the condition from malignancy.
- Actinomyces identification and isolation can be challenging due to its microaerophilic nature.
Findings:
- The case highlights the importance of considering actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis of thoracic masses.
- Characteristic imaging findings and histological examination were decisive in achieving a correct diagnosis.
- The report discusses the diagnostic challenges associated with this difficult-to-isolate bacterium.
Implications:
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of thoracic actinomycosis is essential for appropriate management.
- Understanding the radiological and histological features aids in distinguishing it from neoplastic processes.
- Effective treatment can prevent severe complications associated with untreated thoracic actinomycosis.
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