Esophageal Stricture Caused by Actinomyces in a Patient with No Apparent Predisposing Factors

Abstract

Actinomyces species are Gram positive anaerobic or microaerophilic bacteria that are part of the human flora in the oropharyngeal, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tract. In the presence of a mucosal injury, they can become pathogenic and infect the underlying tissue without respect for tissue planes, leading to abscesses, fistulas, and sinus tracts. Through contiguous and hematogenous spread, virtually any organ can become infected. The presentation can be myriad and often mimics tumors, tuberculosis, or other more common infections and inflammatory conditions. While the cervicofacial region is the most common site of infection, involvement of the esophagus is unusual. Esophageal actinomycosis mostly occurs in patients with compromised immunity or prior esophageal injuries. Occurrence in immunocompetent individuals without risk factors is exceedingly rare. We report a case of esophageal actinomycosis complicated by an esophageal stricture in a patient with no apparent predisposing conditions.