[Renal actinomycosis with pneumonia]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology
• Nephrology

Context:

• A 55-year-old male patient presented with persistent pneumonia unresponsive to antibiotics.
• Imaging revealed multiple lung tubercles and a left renal abscess with spreading subcutaneous inflammation.

Purpose:

• To report a rare case of disseminated Actinomyces infection presenting as pneumonia and renal abscess.
• To highlight diagnostic challenges and treatment limitations in severe Actinomyces infections.

Summary:

• The patient developed a left renal abscess and lung tubercles, initially treated for pneumonia.
• Despite initial antibiotic response, inflammation worsened, and surgical intervention was limited by poor respiratory function.
• Pathological examination confirmed Actinomyces in both lungs and kidneys, with the patient ultimately succumbing to sepsis and respiratory failure.

Impact:

• This case underscores the importance of considering uncommon pathogens like Actinomyces in complex infectious presentations.
• It highlights the challenges in managing disseminated infections in patients with compromised respiratory function.
• Emphasizes the need for thorough pathological examination for definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment of Actinomyces infections.