Actinomyces europaeus Isolated from a Breast Abscess in a Penicillin-Allergic Patient

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Actinomycosis is a bacterial infection typically treated with penicillin.
• Penicillin allergy presents a challenge in managing actinomycosis.
• Limited literature exists on alternative antimicrobial strategies for actinomycosis.

Observation:

• A 69-year-old woman presented with a breast abscess.
• Initial treatment included incision, drainage, and antibiotics.
• Actinomyces europaeus was identified from pus culture 21 days post-presentation.

Findings:

• The patient had a documented penicillin allergy.
• Intravenous tigecycline followed by oral clarithromycin was administered.
• This non-penicillin regimen proved effective for the breast actinomycosis.

Implications:

• Highlights successful non-penicillin treatment for Actinomyces breast abscess.
• Suggests tigecycline and clarithromycin as viable alternatives for penicillin-allergic patients.
• Underscores the importance of tailored antimicrobial therapy in complex cases.