A case of pediatric cervicofacial actinomyces masquerading as malignancy: Case report and review of the literature

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2019 Jan:116:204-208. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2018.11.001. Epub 2018 Nov 3.

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Actinomyces / isolation & purification*
  • Actinomycosis / diagnosis*
  • Actinomycosis / drug therapy
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neck / microbiology
  • Neck / pathology
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Penicillins / therapeutic use*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Penicillins