Actinotignum schaalii Abscess in a Patient with Common Variable Immunodeficiency

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Actinotignum schaalii is an anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium commonly found in the urogenital tract.
• It primarily causes urinary tract infections, particularly in elderly individuals.

Observation:

• This report details the first documented case of Actinotignum schaalii infection presenting as cellulitis and abscess.
• The patient had common variable immunodeficiency, a condition affecting the immune system.

Findings:

• The infection was successfully treated with incision and drainage, followed by an extended course of antibiotics.
• This case highlights a rare presentation of Actinotignum schaalii infection.

Implications:

• Actinotignum schaalii should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sterile abscesses.
• Requesting anaerobic cultures is essential when routine cultures yield no growth, aiding in the diagnosis of such infections.