Genital actinomycosis. Diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties. Report of three cases
Atallah, D.; Lizee, D.S.; Van den Akker, M.; Gadonneix, P.; Tranbaloc, P.; Villet, R.
Annales de Chirurgie 53(4): 291-296
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-3944 PMID: 10327692 Document Number: 499583
Genital actinomycosis is a rare bacterial infection affecting women of child-bearing age, which is sometimes related to the use of an IUD or an intra-vaginal pessary. Nevertheless, this relationship is at best tenous and actinomycosis is not the only bacterial infection caused by IUD use. Genital actinomycosis often occurs as a pelvic tumour which is sometimes difficult to correctly diagnose and consequently treat accordingly. Rapid diagnosis is essential in order to avoid any irreparable tissue damage. Treatment of this condition consists of a combination of antibiotics and surgery to achieve complete recovery. Three cases are described.