A Case of Actinomycosis Arising in Parotid Gland / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

Actinomycosis is an unusual granulomatous infection caused by gram-positive organisms (Actinomycetes. israelii, A. naeslundii, A. odontolyticus, and A. viscosus). Depending on the involved anatomical region, actinomycosis is classified into three clinical forms cervicofacial (the most common, 55%), thoracic, or abdominopelvic. It is still a rare disease constituting less than 1% of all infections and primary parotid actinomycosis is even more rare, indeed. Actinomycosis typically has a chronic, indolent course characterized by swelling and induration of the soft tissues and eventual spontaneous drainage through multiple sinus tracts. The sulfur granule defines the pathognomonic pathologic finding of actinomycosis, but it has been reported in only 40% of cases. Treatment of cervicofacial actinomycosis consists of removal of the infectious source, such as an infected tooth; incision and drainage, ideally including irrigating drains, and appropriate use of antibiotics and surgery. Our case dealt with a 55-year-old female presenting a firm mass in right parotid area. She was treated with surgical excision and antibiotic treatment.