Botryomycosis of the oral cavity

Botryomycosis is a bacterial infection characterized histologically by granules containing bacteria. Usually there is surrounding granulomatous inflammation with occasional extension into muscle or bone. While there are several hypotheses regarding the pathogenesis of botryomycosis, the exact mechanism is unclear. Botryomycosis has been associated with a variety of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, usually endogenous flora and low virulence organisms. Oral lesions appear to be uncommon despite continuous exposure to endogenous oral flora. Treatment should include surgical excision and antibiotic therapy.