A case of pediatric cervicofacial actinomyces masquerading as malignancy: Case report and review of the literature. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Savoca, Emily; Mehra, Saral; Waldman, Erik H.
• Is Part Of: International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. Volume 116(2019:Jan.)
• Page Start: 204
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Oto-rhino-laryngologie -- Périodiques; Pédiatrie -- Périodiques; 618.9209751
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2018.11.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-5876

Abstract

Abstract: Cervicofacial actinomyces is an uncommon infection, especially in children. Notoriously low culture sensitivity and malignant appearance make diagnosis challenging. Treatment requires a prolonged antibiotic course often in conjunction with surgical debridement or drainage. We report an amorphous anterior neck mass in a 10-year-old girl due to actinomyces. Diagnosis required open biopsy after non-diagnostic fine needle aspirate and core needle biopsies. The patient responded well to six-week course of parenteral penicillin followed by six months of convalescent therapy with oral penicillin. In addition to a case discussion, we review cervicofacial actinomyces in the literature with a focus on pediatrics.