Actinomycosis
by
Krisha McCoy, MS DefinitionActinomycosis is a bacterial infection that causes pus to collect in the body. The type depends on where it starts:
Rarely, the infection can spread from one place in the body to another.
CausesCertain bacteria cause actinomycosis. They are normal in the mouth and sometimes in the bowels. They get into the body through breaks in the tissues. Tooth decay causes infections in the mouth and jaw. This is the most common type. Risk FactorsYour chances of this infection are higher if you:
SymptomsSymptoms depend on the where the infection starts. These may involve:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You may have:
TreatmentAntibiotics treat the infection. Care also involves draining the infection site. It’s common for the infection to come back, even after getting care. PreventionTaking care of your mouth and teeth are the best way to lower your chances of infection. This involves:
RESOURCES:Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians https://familydoctor.org Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association https://www.mouthhealthy.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dental Association http://www.cda-adc.ca Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca References:Actinomycosis. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/anaerobic-bacteria/actinomycosis. Updated January 2018. Accessed May 21, 2018.
Cervicofacial actinomycosis. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
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Updated June 5, 2017. Accessed May 21, 2018.
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Infect Drug Resist. 2014;7:183-197. Last reviewed May 2018 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP Last Updated: 5/21/2018 |
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