Polymicrobial empyema; a novel case of Actinomyces turicensis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Empyema, an infection of the pleural space, is a known complication of pneumonia.
• The spectrum of pathogens causing empyema continues to expand.
• Actinomyces species are anaerobic bacteria that can cause diverse infections.

Observation:

• A case of empyema was identified with Actinomyces turicensis as the causative agent.
• Actinomyces turicensis is typically a commensal bacterium found in the oropharynx and female urogenital tract.
• This represents the first reported instance of empyema caused by Actinomyces turicensis.

Findings:

• The study details a novel case of empyema attributed to Actinomyces turicensis.
• A review of the pathogenesis of Actinomyces species in the pleural space is presented.
• The propensity of Actinomyces to breach anatomical barriers and cause recurrent infections without adequate therapy is highlighted.

Implications:

• Recognizing Actinomyces turicensis as a cause of empyema is essential for appropriate antimicrobial selection.
• Knowledge of this pathogen aids in preventing treatment failure and recurrence of pleural space infections.
• This finding expands the differential diagnosis for empyema, particularly in cases involving anaerobic bacteria.