Actinomycotic pelvic inflammatory disease simulating malignancy
Goodman, H.M.; Tuomala, R.E.; Leavitt, T.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 31(7): 625-628
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 3746794 Document Number: 283657
A case in a 40-yr-old woman with an IUD in situ (for 19 yrs) is reported. The patient presented with constipation and lower abdominal pain. The uterus was enlarged and tender on palpitation. Papanicolaou smears revealed organisms consistent with Actinomyces. Despite the removal of the IUD and antibiotic therapy, the symptoms persisted. A laparotomy was performed and a solid mass which filled the right side of the pelvis was removed. Pathological examination of the ovarian mass revealed characteristic sulphur granules consistent with actinomycete infection. The patient recovered after extensive antibiotic therapy and surgery.