Definition

Actinomycosis is a bacterial infection that results in abscesses (collections of pus) in the abdominal cavity (abdominal actinomycosis), jaw (cervicofacial actinomycosis), lungs (thoracic actinomycosis), or all over the body (generalized actinomycosis). This condition can be treated, so contact your doctor if you think you may have actinomycosis.

Causes

Actinomycosis is most often caused by infection by the bacterium, Actinomyces israelii , which is present in the gums, teeth, and tonsils.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance for getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chance of developing actinomycosis. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:

  • Dental disease
  • Trauma
  • Aspiration (removing fluids or gases from the body by artificial suction)

Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to actinomycosis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.

  • Pain
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Weight loss
  • Drainage of pus through the skin
  • Small, flat, hard, sometimes painful swellings around the mouth, neck, or jaw, which may discharge pus
  • Sputum-producing cough

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:

  • Analyses of pus, sputum, or tissue
  • X-ray

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Medications

High doses of antibiotics are used to treat actinomycosis.

Drainage of Abscesses

Your doctor will drain pus-containing abscesses.

Prevention

The best way to reduce your chances of developing actinomycosis is to prevent dental disease by practicing good dental hygiene and regularly visiting your dentist.