Pseudoactinomycotic Radiate Granules (PAMRAGs)- An Unusual Differential Diagnosis for Ovarian Neoplasm; A Diagnostic Dilemma

Abstract

Pseudoactinomycotic radiate granules (PAMRAGs) are rarely detected lesions in ovary. Endometrium is the usual site and a detailed search of literature yielded only two cases in the ovary. PAMRAGs must be differentiated from actinomycotic granules which are also strongly associated with the use of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs). In cases of suppurative oophoritis due to actinomycosis, a proper diagnosis and culture confirmation is mandatory to avoid further complications. This case is reported due to its rarity, unusual clinical presentation and to highlight the importance of special stains in cases of tuboovarian abscess, where PAMRAGs may cause diagnostic dilemma. Our patient was a 50 yr old female admitted with clinical diagnosis of malignant ovarian tumour. After preoperative work up, panhysterectomy, infracolic omentectomy and excision biopsy of the right inguinal lymph node were done. Peroperatively the right ovary was enlarged and adherent to the fallopian tube and pelvic wall. Gross examination revealed a right tuboovarian mass with yellowish areas of necrosis and fibrosis. Histology showed a suppurative granulomatous lesion with spherical granules having club like peripheral projections. A panel of special stains (GMS, GRAMs and AFB) done were negative. Thus, we ruled out actinomycosis and gave a diagnosis of PAMRAG.

Keywords

• endometrium
• oophoritis
• tubo ovarian mass