What is actinomycosis?

Actinomycosis is a rare but serious infection that commonly occurs in the head and neck area. This is due to a number of different bacteria called Actinomycetes . The actinomycetes commonly occur in the cheeks and mouth, but do not cause infection if they enter the body through broken skin or mucosal tissue. It can also infect chest and lungs if inhaled by mouth or nose. Although actinomycosis is a rare infection, it is still common in tropical countries. The muscles around the area can become tight. Under the pile is created abscess due to pus accumulation. The tissue surrounding the lump swelling and pus begins to leak with small passages called cavities to the surface of the skin.

These abscesses most often appear around the jaw area. They can also appear on the mouth, chest abdomen. Because they are most often around the jaw, the condition is sometimes referred to as bumpy jaw

other common symptoms of actinomycosis are fever and swelling on the head and face. Were also recordedCases of weight loss. Symptoms are usually painless.

The diagnosis of actinomycosis is usually performed after laboratory testing. The mouth must be analyzed to detect the presence of Actinomycetes. Tests are also looking for granules of yellow sulfur on pus, which are a sign of actinomycosis.

The treatment of actinomycosis is usually a number of antibiotics, most often penicillin. First they are injected and monitored oral antibiotics. If the infection is severe, treatment may take up to 12 months.

In some cases, surgery may be required to remove abscesses. The surgery must be obliged to remove the cavities and any infected lumps. Passages that pus leakage may need to be closed if they have progressed to the bones.

The best way to prevent actinomycosis is to maintain an excellent level of hygiene. Infection can spread by crumbling teeth so regularDental checks are important. People who are more susceptible to infection include pregnant women and people with a weak immune system.