Disseminated uterine actinomycosis: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Actinomyces - It mainly affects the cervicofacial and abdominopelvic organs. These bacteria are of low virulence and their spread requires breakdown or alteration of the normal tissue barrier, which can be due to any surgery, trauma, or infection. Actinomyces infection involving the reproductive organs may often mimic a neoplasm and lead to aggressive surgical management for the patient; it is therefore necessary to recognize the infection which can be effectively managed using a combination of pharmaceutical agents. Imaging such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging aid in determining the extent of the disease. Histopathological diagnosis/culture is necessary to make the final diagnosis. We present a case of actinomycosis of the uterus manifesting as a large uterine mass with dissemination to the pelvis and anterior abdominal wall.