Actinomycosis is a long-term (chronic) bacterial infection that commonly affects the face and neck.
Alternative NamesLumpy jaw
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsActinomycosis is usually caused by an anaerobic bacteria called Actinomyces israelii, which is a common and normally not disease-causing (nonpathogenic) organism found in the nose and throat.
Because of the bacteria's normal location in the nose and throat, actinomycosis most commonly appears in the face and neck. However, the infection can sometimes occur in the chest (pulmonary actinomycosis), abdomen, pelvis, or other areas of the body. The infection is not contagious.
Symptoms occur when the bacteria enters the facial tissues after trauma, surgery, or infection. A common triggering causes is dental abscess or oral surgery. The infection has also been seen in certain women who have had an intrauterine device (IUD) to prevent pregnancy.
Once in the tissue, it forms an abscess, producing a hard, red to reddish-purple lump, often on the jaw, from which comes the condition's common name, "lumpy jaw."
Eventually, the abscess breaks through the skin surface to produce a draining sinus tract.
SymptomsSee also: Neck lumps
Signs and testsTreatment of actinomycosis usually requires antibiotics for several months to a year. Surgical drainage or removal of the lesion may be needed. If the condition is related to an IUD, the device must be removed.
Expectations (prognosis)With treatment, you should recover fully.
ComplicationsMeningitis can rarely develop from this infection.
Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if you develop any of the symptoms of this disorder. Beginning treatment promptly helps quicken the recovery.
PreventionGood oral hygiene and regular dentist visits may help prevent some forms of actinomycosis.
ReferencesBrook I. Actinomycosis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 350.