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Head and Neck Pathology
Published in: Head and Neck Pathology 3/2019

01-09-2019 | Original Paper

Actinomycosis Presenting as Macroglossia: Case Report and Review of Literature

Authors: Shayan Sadeghi, Maxime Azaïs, Julien Ghannoum

Published in: Head and Neck Pathology | Issue 3/2019

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Abstract

Cervicofacial actinomycosis is a common form of Actinomyces infection. However, the latter seldom occurs in the tongue. We present a case of a 66 year-old man with macroglossia caused by actinomycosis of the tongue. Radiographic features were compatible with a chronic inflammatory disease. Biopsies revealed granulomas containing giant cells and Gram positive bacterial clusters consistent with actinomycosis. The patient was treated with a 22 week course of antibiotics. Imaging showed a notable improvement in the extent of the lesions 1 year later. The patient was asymptomatic and in good condition during his second year follow-up. Diagnosis of actinomycosis of the tongue can prove to be challenging because of the non-specific nature of its symptoms, clinical signs, and radiographic features. Isolation of Actinomyces sp. is an added diagnostic hurdle, because of its fastidious nature.
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Metadata
Title
Actinomycosis Presenting as Macroglossia: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors
Shayan Sadeghi
Maxime Azaïs
Julien Ghannoum
Publication date
01-09-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Head and Neck Pathology / Issue 3/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1936-0568
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12105-018-0966-7

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