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Published on: June 13, 2018
Caruncular abscess due to actinomycosis
Yeon-Hee Lee1, Woo-Jin Kim, Sung-Bok Lee
1Department of Ophthalmology, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
Korean Journal of Ophthalmology : KJO
|August 3, 2013
Summary
Actinomycosis caused a rare caruncular abscess in a woman presenting with persistent eye discharge. Surgical drainage and antibiotics successfully treated the infection, with no recurrence observed.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Caruncular abscesses are uncommon orbital infections.
- Actinomycosis is a bacterial infection characterized by 'sulfur granules'.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old female presented with a six-month history of purulent discharge from the left eye caruncle.
- Clinical examination revealed a caruncular abscess.
Findings:
- Surgical excision and drainage of the abscess were performed.
- 'Sulfur granules' were identified, confirming actinomycosis.
- Intraoperative lacrimal probing and irrigation ruled out a connection between the abscess and the canaliculus.
Implications:
- This case highlights actinomycosis as a potential cause of caruncular abscess.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for successful treatment.
- Complete resolution and absence of recurrence were achieved with combined surgical and medical management.
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