Colonic pseudotumor caused by abdominal actinomycosis: A case report

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Abdominal actinomycosis is a rare, chronic bacterial infection caused by Actinomyces species.
• It often presents insidiously, mimicking other abdominal pathologies, notably malignancy.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

Observation:

• A patient presented with abdominal pain and leukocytosis, suggestive of a serious condition.
• Computed tomography revealed a transverse colon mass with infiltrative features, raising suspicion for cancer.
• Surgical intervention was undertaken due to the possibility of colonic tumor.

Findings:

• Post-operative histopathology confirmed abdominal actinomycosis, revealing suppurative nodules with actinomycetes colonies.
• The imaging findings, while suspicious for cancer, ultimately pointed to an infectious etiology.
• Microscopic examination was key in differentiating actinomycosis from neoplastic disease.

Implications:

• This case underscores the need to include actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis of colonic masses.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are effective in managing abdominal actinomycosis.
• Awareness of this condition can prevent unnecessary aggressive treatments for suspected cancers.