Emerging presence of Actinomyces in perianal and pilonidal infection. Issue 8 (17th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tan, Chih Y; Javed, Muhammad A; Artioukh, Dmitri Y
• Is Part Of: Journal of surgical case reports. Volume 2022:Issue 8(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-08-17
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgery -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjac367
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-8812

Abstract

Abstract: Actinomyces is a rare aetiology of infections affecting the perianal region and natal cleft. Recognition of this microorganism is essential to deliver targeted antimicrobial therapy following surgical intervention. We present a series of 15 pilonidal and perianal infections associated with this microorganism. Actinomyces turicensis was the only strain of Actinomyces isolated. A total of 14 out of 15 cases had concomitant microorganisms isolated from microbiology specimens. Mixed anaerobes ( n = 14) were the most common concomitant pathogens followed by Streptococcus milleri ( n = 3), Staphylococcus aureus ( n = 1), Citrobacter ( n = 1) and Coliform bacteria ( n = 1). All patients, except one who was pregnant at time of diagnosis, underwent surgical drainage with or without further oral antibiotic therapy. Coloproctologists need to consider Actinomyces as a clinically significant pathogen in the context of perianal and pilonidal infections.