Pelvic actinomycosis and usage of intrauterine contraceptive devices

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is one of the most commonly encountered serious infectious disease entities in gynecology. The past decade has witnessed many advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of PID. It is now evident that such pelvic infections are largely polymicrobial in origin, with major involvement by anaerobic organisms. Salpingo-oophoritis is a part of the spectrum of PID. Included among this group of infections are tubo-ovarian abscesses, traditionally referred to as either gonococcal or non-gonococcal in origin. Within the latter group of infections the importance of anaerobic organisms has also been elucidated. Of particular interest is the reported observation of an increased frequency of salpingo-oophoritis among users of intrauterine devices (IUDs). These reports have noted the specific occurrence of serious pelvic infections due to Actinomyces species, and this will be the topic of the infectious disease conference. Our patient presented with a chronic illness characterized by lethargy, back pain, fever, and anemia; subsequently evaluation disclosed the presence of a large pelvic mass which was confirmed as a tubo-ovarian abscess at surgery. Histological evaluation demonstrated involvement by Actinomyces species. This patient's illness is discussed as a complication of chronic IUD usage with reference to specific management for this emerging problem.