Recurrent Abdominal Actinomycosis With Multiple Organ Involvement: A Rare Clinical Presentation

Abstract

Actinomycosis is a chronic granulomatous bacterial disease. It has a tendency to spread contagiously and suppurate forming granulation tissue, and multiple abscesses, which drain through skin forming sinus tracts. Sulphur granules discharging through sinus tracts are the characteristic features. Its varied presentation is always confused with malignancy rather than an infective process. We report an extraordinary case of recurrent abdominal wall actinomycosis spreading to the liver, right kidney, intestine,and pelvic organs because of discontinued treatment with penicillin. We emphasize the importance of long-term antibiotic treatment, which if deferred can lead to recurrence of the disease which could be life threatening at times.

Keywords

• Actinomycosis
• Laparotomy
• Antibiotic treatment
• Abdominal wall
• Recurrence