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Aim: To demonstrate a case of Actinomyces infection in which ultrasound was used as a diagnostic aid tool. Materials and Methods: Description of a case of cervicofacial actinomycosis in a patient, whose treatment and long‐term evaluation were performed using ultrasound, a crucial tool to ensure accuracy and real‐time images, without exposing the patient to radiation, contributing to the success of treatment. Results: In the case of actinomycosis, the ultrasound findings consisted of hyperechoic foci surrounded by hypoechoic areas. Conclusions: Ultrasonography plays a broad role in dentistry, being able to assist in diagnosis, guided surgical interventions and post‐treatment monitoring. Furthermore, ultrasound is an accessible and portable examination that can be used at the patient's bedside, especially in critical cases, proving to be a promising tool in clinical management in a hospital environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundAimsMaterial and methodsResultsConclusion and significanceThe presence of Actinomyces can be associated with complications.This study aimed to determine the frequency of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH), the presence of Actinomyces in palatine tonsils and serum inflammatory biomarker levels in PTH.The cases who underwent tonsillectomy at a single center were included in the study. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) values were calculated from the complete blood count test. The presence of Actinomyces was recorded from histopathological tonsillectomy material.A total of 1137 patients were included in the study. Actinomyces was detected in 93 (8.18%) patients. Bleeding complications were encountered in 65 cases (5.72%). No relationship was detected between the presence of Actinomyces and PTH rates (p = 0.433). While a relationship was found between age, NLR, and SIRI values and Actinomyces status (respectively, p < 0.001, p = 0.017, p = 0.038), no statistically significant relationship was found between tonsil size, PLR, and SII (p > 0.05).According to the data in our study, NLR and SIRI values were elevated in subjects with Actinomyces. Our findings suggest that this entity has a systemic manifestation. Serum inflammatory biomarkers and the presence of Actinomyces were not found to be associated with PTH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Fogorvosi Szemle is the property of Hungarian Dental Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Disseminated actinomyces is a rare infection that presents with subtle symptoms and radiographic findings. Patients frequently complain of pelvic pain and nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms. Imaging can reveal a tumor-like mass and mimic malignancy. Here we discuss a patient who presented with abdominal pain, and computerized tomography (CT) imaging revealed a pelvic mass and features suggestive of carcinomatosis concerning for ovarian cancer. Case Presentation: A 55-year-old woman presented with 1 week of abdominal pain and 5 months of increasing abdominal girth. CT imaging was concerning for an advanced ovarian cancer and demonstrated a pelvic mass, peritoneal nodularity, and omental thickening. She subsequently underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and abdominal washout with pathology and cultures revealing disseminated actinomyces. She fully recovered after receiving a long course of antibiotics. Conclusion: This case adds to the limited literature illustrating that disseminated actinomyces can present similarly to ovarian cancer. The diagnosis may only be elucidated upon histologic examination of surgical specimens. Consideration of pelvic actinomyces should be entertained in all women presenting with pelvic tumors on imaging and intrauterine devices in place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the role of Actinomyces on the development of MRONJ in an immunocompromised mouse model with periapical disease. Thirty ovariectomized C57BL/6 N female mice were treated with zoledronic acid (ZA) and dexamethasone (DX) for 12 weeks. At the eighth week of drug administration, pulpal exposure operation was performed on the lower right first molar in Group B and C, meanwhile Actinomyces inoculation was performed at the pulpal entrance of Group C. Group A received no operation as control. After 4 weeks, loads of total bacteria and Actinomyces in the oral cavity were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Mandibles were harvested for micro-computed tomography (CT) and histological analysis. Real-time PCR revealed positive detection of Actinomyces in 30% samples in Group C and negative detection in all samples in Group B and control group. Micro-CT examination demonstrated that in ZA treated mice, pulpal exposure significantly increased periapical bone loss, which was significantly aggravated by Actinomyces inoculation. Histological assessment showed vasodilation, acute exudative changes and pulp necrosis in Group B and C. The present study revealed that inoculation of Actinomyces compromises the bone quality but does not further aggravate bone necrosis significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquired benign tracheoesophageal fistulas and bronchoesophageal fistulas (TEF) are typically associated with granulomatous mediastinal infections, 75% of which are iatrogenic. Candida albicans and Actinomyces are commonly occurring organisms, but are uncommon etiologies of TEF. Normal colonization and the slow growth characteristics of some species of these agents rarely result in infection, mycetoma, and broncholithiasis, and thus, delays in diagnosis and treatment are likely. Few reports describe C. albicans or Actinomyces spp. as the etiology of TEF or broncholithiasis. Herein, we report a case of benign acquired TEF secondary to coinfection of Candida and Actinomyces complicated by the formation of an actinomycetoma and broncholithiasis and a comprehensive literature review to highlight the unique nature of this presentation and offer a diagnostic algorithm for diagnosis and treatment of TEFs. Following a presentation of three months of productive cough, choking sensation, night sweats, and weight loss, a bronchoscopy revealed a fistulous connection between the esophagus and the posterior right middle lobe. Pathology identified a calcified fungus ball and a broncholith secondary to the co-infection of Candida and Actinomyces. This unique presentation of Candida and Actinomyces co-infection and the associated diagnostic algorithm are presented as education and a useful tool for clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) is a severe condition of multifactorial origin, with its exact etiological factors still not fully understood. Besides bisphosphonates, many other drugs are responsible for the development of this condition. The etiology of MRONJ is not precisely known, but infectious origins are being attributed to greater significance. Recently, several authors have highlighted the potential role of Actinomyces strains in the disease course. This publication presents the prosthetic rehabilitation of two MRONJ patients with different microbiological backgrounds and thus different treatments. One patient received solely surgical therapy, while the other underwent both surgical and long-term conservative treatment, resulting in recovery for both. Both patients regularly attend follow-up appointments, show no signs of MRONJ recurrence, and are satisfied with their dental prostheses both functionally and aesthetically.

Actinomycosis is a rare chronic suppurative granulomatous disease. Surgical biopsy is often performed in patients with chest actinomycosis because malignancy is suspected in most cases. A 62-year-old man presented to our hospital with fever and exertional dyspnea that had persisted for several months. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed an irregularly shaped mass with contrast enhancement in the anterior mediastinum and consolidation in the left upper lung lobe contiguous with this mass, as well as multiple nodules in both lungs. The pulmonary artery trunk was stenotic and surrounded by the mass, and the right heart system was enlarged. Thoracoscopic biopsy was performed but failed to yield a diagnosis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography after one month revealed an increased mass and worsening right heart strain. 18F-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) positron emission tomography/computed tomography and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging also suggested a malignant tumor, and an open chest biopsy was performed. No malignant cells were identified and actinomycetes were detected by histopathology and bacterial culture. The patient was treated with antibiotics, following which his contrast-enhanced computed tomography findings and general condition improved.

Background: Actinomyces spp. are most commonly found in human commensal flora; however, they have also been shown to cause suppurative infections. We present a case of a rare Actinomyces funkei bacteraemia from an infected deep vein thrombosis in a patient who went on to develop pulmonary cavities secondary to septic emboli. Infected thrombi and septic emboli have been associated with other Actinomyces spp. in the literature, often posing a diagnostic challenge and, in some cases, causing drastic clinical deterioration in patients. The literature regarding Actinomyces funkei is scarce and to our knowledge there are no reports of a relationship between this Actinomyces subspecies and infected thrombi or septic emboli. Case presentation: The patient was a 39-year-old known intravenous drug user who presented with a groin injecting site sinus and systemic symptoms. The bacteria was first observed by gram staining of a blood culture sample after 48 h of incubation and the species was identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) as Actinomyces funkei. Sputum cytology/histology with cell block revealed a branching gram-positive species suspicious of slow growing bacteria or fungus. CT imaging of his lower limb and chest revealed an extensive DVT with inflammatory changes and pulmonary cavities respectively. The patient was treated with Ceftriaxone before being discharged with a 6-month course of Linezolid. He made a good recovery with reduction in size of the cavitating lung lesions on follow-up imaging. Conclusions: This case report presents a difficult-to-diagnose bacterial infection in an intravenous drug user, complicated by bacteraemia and secondary septic emboli. Relatively little is known about Actinomyces funkei, and therefore this report aims to increase clinician awareness of diagnosis, management, and complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori, a curved bacterial rod and causative agent of peptic ulcer and gastric adenocarcinoma, is found as an infectious agent in the stomach of over half of the global population. H. pylori has been identified in oral biofilms and its presence in adenotonsillar tissues has been suggested, with variations in testing methodology both proving and disproving its presence. The current study employed 119 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tonsillar tissues from an adult population (n=86) in a major metropolitan city with immunohistochemistry procedures using a monoclonal antibody to determine the incidence of H. pylori in the tonsils. H. pylori was identified in 72.1% of the patients and was associated with Actinomyces spp. in 92.0% of those cases. The high incidence of H. pylori in patients undergoing tonsillectomy suggests that H. pylori may be a contributing factor for tonsillitis and tonsillar hypertrophy. Furthermore, the reservoir for H. pylori in the tonsils may explain why some persons remain refractory to antibiotic treatment for gastric H. pylori. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil & Water Conservation (1009-2242) is the property of Institute of Soil & Water Conservation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pulmonary actinomycosis is an uncommon clinical entity that can be challenging to diagnose due to its non-specific symptomatology. Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment may result in invasive procedures and extended antimicrobial treatment courses. We report a case involving a 65-year-old female with poor oral dentition admitted for acute respiratory failure subsequently found to have a left-sided pleural effusion and perihepatic abscess formation. Cytopathology examination and microbiology studies confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary actinomycosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose is to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of B. rotunda rhizome against Streptococcus mutans KCTC3289, Streptococcus sobrinus KCTC3307 and Actinomyces viscosus ATCC15987. Disc diffusion assay, minimum inhibition concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and time kill analysis were performed for determining antibacterial activity of the fingerroot rhizome. Antibiofilm activity was performed using sessile minimum inhibitory concentration (SMIC) and minimum bactericidal eradication concentration (MBEC) method. All tested cariogenic bacteria were inhibited by B. rotunda extract (inhibition zone 8.00--17.00 mm). The results of MIC and MBC of all tested bacteria ranged 0.15-10.00 mg/mL and 0.62-10.00 mg/mL, respectively. Time-kill curve showed that extract (2xMIC--4xMIC) can completely kill the bacteria within 2 to 4 h incubation times. In antibiofilm activity, SMIC were recorded 1.56--6.25 mg/mL, whereas the biofilm was eradicated by MBEC values of 3.12--12.50 mg/mL. B. rotunda rhizome is potential to be utilized as antibacterial and antibiofilm agent against cariogenic bacteria, make it possible to apply as natural biofilm control agents for the prevention of dental caries. Further studies should be conducted to reveal the cellular mechanisms involved in the antibacterial activities and their possible applications in oral care products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to expound on the correlation between facial skin microbiome and sensitive skin (SS) using a novel sequencing technique. Methods: We applied the 2bRAD sequencing for the microbiome, which enables accurate characterization of the low‐biomass microbiome at species resolution to profile facial skin microbes in SS and non‐SS groups. Further, the bacterial colonies were isolated and cultured from skin surfaces to study the pro‐inflammatory effect on human keratinocytes by ELISA. Results: We accordingly identified 1142 genera and 4436 strains. In the SS group, the proportions of Actinomyces and Microbotryomycetes were significantly increased, whereas that of Acidimicrobiia was decreased. Kruskal–Wallis analysis revealed significant differences in 11 genera and 35 species, among which the proportions of Dermabacter, Chryseobacterium, Rhodotorula and Peptoniphilus A were increased in the SS group. Analysis of the top 10 genera revealed increased proportions of Cutibacterium, Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus. Moreover, the proportion of Dermabacter hominis was significantly increased by 18.9‐fold in the SS group, whereas those of many Streptococcus strains were significantly decreased. Focus on the isolated bacterial colonies from skin surfaces, more yellow colonies were found in SS group when cultured in Tryptic Soy Broth medium for 48 h, and more interleukin‐8 was detected on keratinocytes after yellow colonies stimulation, such as S.capitis, M.luteus. Conclusions: This study suggests that more SS‐associated microorganisms can be identified using the 2bRAD technique even with a small sample size. Dermabacter hominis and Chryseobacterium was firstly reported with a significantly increase in SS, and the S.capitis, as well as M.luteus, but not S.aureus, may be associated with skin inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Bronchopulmonary sequestration, a rare congenital anomaly, involves a nonfunctioning lung tissue mass supplied by anomalous vessels. It is rarely infected by Actinomyces, further complicating the clinical presentation, with limited reported cases. This case highlights the distinctive clinical aspects, diagnostic challenges, and successful management strategies of such a rare clinical entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biphasic assembly of Gram-positive pili begins with the covalent polymerization of distinct pilins catalyzed by a pilus-specific sortase, followed by the cell wall anchoring of the resulting polymers mediated by the housekeeping sortase. In Actinomyces oris, the pilus-specific sortase SrtC2 not only polymerizes FimA pilins to assemble type 2 fimbriae with CafA at the tip, but it can also act as the anchoring sortase, linking both FimA polymers and SrtC1-catalyzed FimP polymers (type 1 fimbriae) to peptidoglycan when the housekeeping sortase SrtA is inactive. To date, the structure-function determinants governing the unique substrate specificity and dual enzymatic activity of SrtC2 have not been illuminated. Here, we present the crystal structure of SrtC2 solved to 2.10-Å resolution. SrtC2 harbors a canonical sortase fold and a lid typical for class C sortases and additional features specific to SrtC2. Structural, biochemical, and mutational analyses of SrtC2 reveal that the extended lid of SrtC2 modulates its dual activity. Specifically, we demonstrate that the polymerizing activity of SrtC2 is still maintained by alanine-substitution, partial deletion, and replacement of the SrtC2 lid with the SrtC1 lid. Strikingly, pilus incorporation of CafA is significantly reduced by these mutations, leading to compromised polymicrobial interactions mediated by CafA. In a srtA mutant, the partial deletion of the SrtC2 lid reduces surface anchoring of FimP polymers, and the lid-swapping mutation enhances this process, while both mutations diminish surface anchoring of FimA pili. Evidently, the extended lid of SrtC2 enables the enzyme the cell wall-anchoring activity in a substrate-selective fashion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinomyces spp. has been shown to form biofilms when exposed to copper, possibly enhancing its degradation. Fragmentation and migration of the copper coil on an intrauterine device (IUD) is rare, but the concomitant presence of Actinomyces spp. may increase its incidence. We present the first case of a fragmented copper IUD within its lifespan of 10 years, with documented Actinomyces genitourinary tract colonization in a premenopausal woman. KEY POINTS: Actinomyces spp. are more prevalent in the urogenital tract of women with IUDs due to the local tissue injury from the device inside the uterus, which creates an anaerobic environment that allows this organism to flourish. Actinomyces spp. can form biofilms when exposed to copper, potentially enhancing its degradation, leading to fragmentation. Patients with a copper IUD and Actinomyces identified on routine or symptomatic cervical sampling should be counseled regarding potential enhanced copper degradation, fragmentation, and migration of the copper coil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Little is known about the role of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction (ED). We performed a study to compare taxonomic profiles of gut microbiota of ED and healthy males. Materials and Methods: A total of 43 ED patients and 16 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) with a cutoff value of 21 was used to evaluate erectile function. All participants underwent nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity test. Samples of stool were sequenced to determine the gut microbiota. Results: We identified a distinct beta diversity of gut microbiome in ED patients by unweighted UniFrac analysis (R2=0.026, p=0.036). Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfse) analysis showed Actinomyces was significantly enriched, whereas Coprococcus_1, Lachnospiraceae_FCS020_group, Lactococcus, Ruminiclostridium_5, and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_002 were depleted in ED patients. Actinomyces showed a significant negative correlation with the duration of qualified erection, average maximum rigidity of tip, average maximum rigidity of base, tip tumescence activated unit (TAU), and base TAU. Coprococcus_ 1, Lachnospiraceae_FCS020_group, Ruminiclostridium_5, and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_002 were significantly correlated with the IIEF-5 score. Ruminiclostridium_5 and Ruminococcaceae_UCG_002 were positively related with average maximum rigidity of tip, average maximum rigidity of base, ΔTumescence of tip, and Tip TAU. Further, a random forest classifier based on the relative abundance of taxa showed good diagnostic efficacy with an area under curve of 0.72. Conclusions: This pilot study identified evident alterations in the gut microbiome composition of ED patients and found Actinomyces was negatively correlated with erectile function, which may be a key pathogenic bacteria.

Introduction Actinomycosis is an uncommon inflammatory bacterial disease caused by Actinomyces species, especially Actinomyces Israeli. Abdominopelvic forms are relatively rare and may involve the colon as a solid mass, mimicking a malignant tumor. Case presentation A 68-year-old Tunisian man, with a history of diabetes, hypertension, penicillin allergy, and renal failure, presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. CT scan showed an acute intestinal obstruction upstream with obstructive tissular mass at the sigmoid colon. Emergency surgery revealed a sigmoid mass and a pre-perforative cecum. Subtotal colectomy was performed, with ileostomy and distal end closure. Histological examination confirmed Actinomyces infection. The patient was then placed on long-term doxycycline and Bactrim, with no recurrence over a 9-month follow-up period. Conclusion Abdominal actinomycosis, though rare, presents diagnostic challenges. It can be mistaken for malignancy, leading to unnecessary surgery in non-complicated cases, since it is effectively treated by antibiotics. In complicated cases, a combined approach involving both surgery and antibiotic therapy is necessary until the infection is completely eradicated.

Introduction Actinomycosis is an uncommon inflammatory bacterial disease caused by Actinomyces species, especially Actinomyces Israeli. Abdominopelvic forms are relatively rare and may involve the colon as a solid mass, mimicking a malignant tumor. Case presentation A 68-year-old Tunisian man, with a history of diabetes, hypertension, penicillin allergy, and renal failure, presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. CT scan showed an acute intestinal obstruction upstream with obstructive tissular mass at the sigmoid colon. Emergency surgery revealed a sigmoid mass and a pre-perforative cecum. Subtotal colectomy was performed, with ileostomy and distal end closure. Histological examination confirmed Actinomyces infection. The patient was then placed on long-term doxycycline and Bactrim, with no recurrence over a 9-month follow-up period. Conclusion Abdominal actinomycosis, though rare, presents diagnostic challenges. It can be mistaken for malignancy, leading to unnecessary surgery in non-complicated cases, since it is effectively treated by antibiotics. In complicated cases, a combined approach involving both surgery and antibiotic therapy is necessary until the infection is completely eradicated.

ABSTRACTActinomyces organisms reside on mucosal surfaces of the oropharynx and the genitourinary tract. Polymicrobial infections with Actinomyces organisms are increasingly being reported in the literature. Since these infections differ from classical actinomycosis, lacking of specific clinical and imaging findings, slow-growing Actinomyces organisms can be regarded as contaminants or insignificant findings. In addition, only limited knowledge is available about novel Actinomyces species and their clinical relevance. The recent reclassifications have resulted in the transfer of several Actinomyces species to novel genera Bowdeniella, Gleimia, Pauljensenia, Schaalia, or Winkia. The spectrum of diseases associated with specific members of Actinomyces and these related genera varies. In human infections, the most common species are Actinomyces israelii, Schaalia meyeri, and Schaalia odontolytica, which are typical inhabitants of the mouth, and Gleimia europaea, Schaalia turicensis, and Winkia neuii. In this narrative review, the purpose was to gather information on the emerging role of specific organisms within the Actinomyces and related genera in polymicrobial infections. These include Actinomyces graevenitzii in pulmonary infections, S. meyeri in brain abscesses and infections in the lower respiratory tract, S. turicensis in skin-related infections, G. europaea in necrotizing fasciitis and skin abscesses, and W. neuii in infected tissues around prostheses and devices. Increased understanding of the role of Actinomyces and related species in polymicrobial infections could provide improved outcomes for patient care.Key messages Due to the reclassification of the genus, many former Actinomyces species belong to novel genera Bowdeniella, Gleimia, Pauljensenia, Schaalia, or Winkia.Some of the species play emerging roles in specific infection types in humans.Increasing awareness of their clinical relevance as an established or a putative pathogen in polymicrobial infections brings about improved outcomes for patient care.

Ozone is increasingly utilized in dental caries treatment due to its antibacterial properties. In a context of limited studies and no consensus on protocols, this research aims to assess ozone's antibacterial efficacy on cariogenic bacteria and its potential adverse impact on dentin bond strength. Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Lactobacillus casei, and Actinomyces naeslundii suspensions were exposed to 40 μg/mL of ozone gas and 60 μg/mL of ozonated water (80 s) via a medical ozone generator. Negative and positive control groups (chlorhexidine 2%) were included, and UFC/mL counts were recorded. To examine microtensile bond strength (µTBS), 20 human molars were divided into four groups, and class I cavities were created. After ozone application, samples were restored using an etch-and-rinse and resin composite, then sectioned for testing. The SPSS v. 28 program was used with a significance level of 5%. The µTBS results were evaluated using one-way ANOVA, Tukey HSD, and Games-Howell. Bacterial counts reduced from 106 to 101, but dentin µTBS was significantly impacted by ozone (ANOVA, p < 0.001). Despite ozone's attractive antibacterial activity, this study emphasizes its detrimental effect on dentin adhesion, cautioning against its use before restorative treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Keratolysis punctata is a chronic superficial bacterial infection caused by different gram-positive bacteria. The condition is limited to the stratum corneum and is characterized by hyperhidrosis, crater-like lesions of 1 to 7 mm and superficial erosions, maceration, pruritus and burning sensation; it commonly affects the soles. OBJECTIVE: To present an updated document on keratolysis punctata in terms of its clinical manifestations and treatment. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective, descriptive study, in which an electronic search was carried out using the terms: Pitted keratolysis, Keratolysis sulcata, Pitted keratolysis diagnosis, Corynebacterium, Actinomyces, Dermatophilus and Micrococcus sedentarius with the database included in PubMed from 1965 to 2022. RESULTS: Thirty-nine studies were analyzed with a total of 2176 patients, of which more than 90% were men, so the disease seems to have a significant male predominance. The age of greatest appearance was between the second and sixth decades of life. Punctate keratolysis was more frequent in patients with some risk factors for the disease, including hyperhidrosis, the use of occlusive footwear or environments with greater humidity and maceration. Topical or systemic antibiotics along with keratolytics and measures to reduce hyperhidrosis have been the cornerstone of treatment against keratolysis punctata. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnosis of the disease continues to be eminently clinical, it can be supported by dermoscopic findings and confirmed by mycological study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halitosis is a common oral condition, which leads to social embarrassment and affects quality of life. Cumulative evidence has suggested the association of tongue-coating microbiome with the development of intraoral halitosis. The dynamic variations of tongue-coating microbiota and metabolites in halitosis have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the tongue-coating microbial and metabolic characteristics in halitosis subjects without other oral diseases using metagenomics and metabolomics analysis. The participants underwent oral examination, halitosis assessment, and tongue-coating sample collection for the microbiome and metabolome analysis. It was found that the microbiota richness and diversity were significantly elevated in the halitosis group. Furthermore, species from Actinomyces, Prevotella, Veillonella, and Solobacterium were significantly more abundant in the halitosis group. However, the Rothia and Streptococcus species exhibited opposite tendencies. Eleven Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways were significantly enriched in the halitosis tongue coatings, including cysteine and methionine metabolism. Functional genes related to sulfur, indole, skatole, and cadaverine metabolic processes (such as serA, metH, metK and dsrAB) were identified to be more abundant in the halitosis samples. The metabolome analysis revealed that indole-3-acetic, ornithine, and L-tryptophan were significantly elevated in the halitosis samples. Furthermore, it was observed that the values of volatile sulfur compounds and indole-3-acetic abundances were positively correlated. The multiomics analysis identified the metagenomic and metabolomic characteristics to differentiate halitosis from healthy individuals using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression and random forest classifier. A total of 19 species and 39 metabolites were identified as features in halitosis patients, which included indole-3-acetic acid, Bacillus altitudinis, Candidatus Saccharibacteria, and Actinomyces species. In conclusion, an evident shift in microbiome and metabolome characteristics was observed in the halitosis tongue coating, which may have a potential etiological significance and provide novel insights into the mechanism for halitosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A former work conducted in our Lab, lead to in a effective scale up of vitamin D3 bioconversion into calcitriol by Actinomyces (A.) hyovaginalis isolate CCASU-A11-2 in Lab fermenter (14 L) resulting in 32.8 µg/100 mL of calcitriol. However, the time needed for such a bioconversion process was up to 5 days. Therefore, the objective of this study was to shorten the bioconversion time by using cell-free lysate and studying different factors influencing bioconversion. The crude cell lysate was prepared, freeze-dried, and primarily fractionated into nine fractions, of which, only three fractions, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl elution buffers showed 22, 12, and 2 µg/10 mL, calcitriol production, respectively. Ammonium sulfate was used for protein precipitation, and it did not affect the bioconversion process except at a concentration of 10%w/v. Secondary fractionation was carried out using 80 mL of the 50 mM NaCl elution buffer and the results showed the 80 mL eluent volume was enough for the complete elution of the active protein. The pH 7.8, temperature 28 °C, and 6 h reaction time were optimum for maximum calcitriol production (31 µg/10 mL). In conclusion, the transformation of vitamin D3 into calcitriol was successfully carried out within 6 h and at pH 7.8 and 28 °C using fractionated cell lysate. This process resulted in a 10-fold increase in calcitriol as compared to that produced in our previous study using a 14 L fermenter (32.8 µg/100 mL). Therefore, cell-free lysate should be considered for industrial and scaling up vitamin D3 bioconversion into calcitriol. Key points: Biotransformation of vitamin D into calcitriol has been achieved within 6 h using a cell-free lysate of A. hyovaginalis isolate CCASU-A11-2. pH 7.8 and incubation temperatures 28 °C were optimum for maximum calcitriol production using the cell-free lysate. This study results in a 10-fold (31 µL/10 mL) to that obtained using a 14 L Lab fermenter. Bioconversion using cell-free lysate should be considered for industrial production of calcitriol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin abscess is one of the most common infections of the skin and soft tissues. However, anaerobic bacteria are infrequently identified as the causative agents of this particular form of abscess. In this case, a 34-year-old pregnant woman was diagnosed with a skin abscess with the use of ultrasonography. The microbiological analysis results of the purulent fluid revealed the coinfection of Actinobaculum schaalii and Actinomyces turicensis. The patient was first treated empirically with 3 days of cefathiamidine, which resulted in no symptom improvement. Subsequently, a surgical procedure involving incision and draining was performed, with the administration of ceftriaxone. After 7 days of antibiotic intervention, the patient exhibited a satisfactory recovery. Clinicians need to be aware of other types of infections that might be attributed to Actinobaculum schaalii and Actinomyces turicensis, in addition to urinary tract infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hypothesis-forming exploratory cross-sectional assessment was conducted to assess the occurrence and relevance of Gram-positive rod-shaped bacteria like Corynebacterium spp. and Actinomycetaceae in human urine samples. In total, 1170 urine samples from 1031 inpatients with suspected urinary tract infection were assessed for culture-based growth of Gram-positive rod-shaped bacteria applying API Coryne assays, matrix-assisted laser desorption–ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), and in-house 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Overall, 502 different bacterial colonies from 346 urine samples taken from 324 inpatients were observed. The three quantitatively most abundant genera or genus clusters were Corynebacterium (254 isolates, 62%), Actinomyces/Winkia (79 isolates, 19%), and Actinotignum/Actinobaculum (29 isolates, 7%). Compared to sequencing, the diagnostic accuracy of all assessed competitor assays from the diagnostic routine was <80% for differentiation on the genus level and <30% for differentiation on the species level. Prolongated incubation for 4 days compared to 2 days resulted in additional detection of 15% of the totally recorded Gram-positive rod-shaped bacteria. An approximately 5-fold increased detection rate in mid-stream urine compared to urine acquired applying alternative sampling strategies was observed. In conclusion, in the rare event of the suspected clinical relevance of such findings, confirmatory testing with invasively sampled urine should be considered due to the high contamination rate observed in mid-stream urine. Confirmatory testing by DNA-sequencing methods should be considered if an exact identification of genus or species is regarded as relevant for the individual choice of the therapeutic strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Actinomycosis is a rare disease. Its diagnosis is challenging clinically as it mimics many other infectious diseases and neoplasms. In this scenario, a simple timely biopsy can come to the clinician’s rescue. Actinomycosis can be reliably diagnosed on histopathological examination accompanied by special stains without losing much time. Culturing this organism is a tedious job in view of its fastidious nature and requires a long waiting time. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be useful and is less time‑consuming, but histopathology is more cost‑effective in our country like India. This case report emphasizes the fact that a rare possibility of actinomycosis should also be kept in mind even in immunocompetent individuals in rare sites like gingiva even if there are no discharging sinuses noted clinically. Actinomycosis requires long‑duration antibiotic treatment, so if diagnosis time is reduced, timely treatment of actinomycosis can be started and complications can be prevented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Actinomycosis is an uncommon inflammatory bacterial disease caused by Actinomyces species, especially Actinomyces Israeli. Abdominopelvic forms are relatively rare and may involve the colon as a solid mass, mimicking a malignant tumor. Case presentation A 68-year-old Tunisian man, with a history of diabetes, hypertension, penicillin allergy, and renal failure, presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain, vomiting, and bowel obstruction. CT scan showed an acute intestinal obstruction upstream with obstructive tissular mass at the sigmoid colon. Emergency surgery revealed a sigmoid mass and a pre-perforative cecum. Total colectomy was performed, with ileostomy and distal end closure. Histological examination confirmed Actinomyces infection. The patient was then placed on long-term doxycycline and Bactrim, with no recurrence over a 9-month follow-up period. Conclusion Abdominal actinomycosis, though rare, presents diagnostic challenges. It can be mistaken for malignancy, leading to unnecessary surgery in non-complicated cases, since it is effectively treated by antibiotics. In complicated cases, a combined approach involving both surgery and antibiotic therapy is necessary until the infection is completely eradicated.

Actinomyces is a family of acid-fast, non-sporulated Gram-positive bacilli that constitute a diverse collection of bacteria that colonize the skin and mucosal surfaces. Isolation and identification occurs only in the minority of cases. The objective of the article is to describe a case with pseudotumoral lesions of the abdominal wall caused by Actinomyces. This is a 54-year-old white female patient who presents with non-specific and local symptoms such as a visible and palpable tumor mass, painful in the right upper quadrant and epigastrium, diagnosed with severe chronic panniculitis with granulation and Actinomyces infection. Surgical treatment was performed. The location of colonies in the abdominal wall is not frequent and a certain diagnosis is made by obtaining a surgical biopsy and observing histological slides.

Key Clinical Message Bronchopulmonary sequestration, a rare congenital anomaly, involves a nonfunctioning lung tissue mass supplied by anomalous vessels. It is rarely infected by Actinomyces, further complicating the clinical presentation, with limited reported cases. This case highlights the distinctive clinical aspects, diagnostic challenges, and successful management strategies of such a rare clinical entity.

Actinomyces oris plays an important role in oral biofilm development. Like many gram-positive bacteria, A. oris produces a sizable number of surface proteins that are anchored to bacterial peptidoglycan by a conserved transpeptidase named the housekeeping sortase SrtA; however, the biological role of many A. oris surface proteins in biofilm formation is largely unknown. Here, we report that the glycoprotein GspA-a genetic suppressor of srtA deletion lethality-not only promotes biofilm formation but also maintains cell membrane integrity under cation stress. In comparison to wild-type cells, under elevated concentrations of mono- and divalent cations the formation of mono- and multi-species biofilms by mutant cells devoid of gspA was significantly diminished, although planktonic growth of both cell types in the presence of cations was indistinguishable. Because gspA overexpression is lethal to cells lacking gspA and srtA, we performed a genetic screen to identify GspA determinants involving cell viability. DNA sequencing and biochemical characterizations of viable clones revealed that mutations of two critical cysteine residues and a serine residue severely affected GspA glycosylation and biofilm formation. Furthermore, mutant cells lacking gspA were markedly sensitive to sodium dodecyl sulfate, a detergent that solubilizes the cytoplasmic membranes, suggesting the cell envelope of the gspA mutant was altered. Consistent with this observation, the gspA mutant exhibited increased membrane permeability, independent of GspA glycosylation, compared to the wild-type strain. Altogether, the results support the notion that the cell wall-anchored glycoprotein GspA provides a defense mechanism against cation stress in biofilm development promoted by A. oris.

AIM: To explore the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment experience and the distribution characteristics of pathogenic microorganisms of primary canaliculitis, and provide reference for its diagnosis and treatment. METHODS: Retrospective clinical study. A total of 119 cases(120 eyes)diagnosed as primary canaliculitis in the department of ophthalmology of Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital from June 2019 to February 2023 were included. The treatment methods were mainly divided into conservative treatment(removing canaliculus stones through lacrimal punctum combined with injecting antibiotic eye ointment into the tube)and surgical treatment. The inspection methods of pathogenic microorganisms included secretion smear microscopy and microbial culture.RESULTS: Primary canaliculitis was more common in middle-aged and older female, mainly manifested by long-term red eye and increased secretion; however, the majority was not accompanied by tearing. Totally, 118 cases(99.2%)had monocular disease, while 63 cases(63 eyes; 52.5%)had inferior lacrimal canaliculus disease. Laboratory examination: Among 119 cases(120 eyes), 4 cases(4 eyes)did not undergo laboratory examination, and the other 115 cases(116 eyes)were as follows: Gram staining microscopy of secretion smear showed that Actinomyces were detected in 102 cases(103 eyes; 88.8%), while no fungus was detected; Microbial culture: 85 cases(86 eyes; 74.1%)were positive for bacterial culture. A total of 111 bacterial strains were cultured, which contained 26 types of bacteria. Among them, 32 strains were aerobic(28.8%); 26 strains were anaerobic(23.4%); and 53 strains were facultative anaerobic(47.7%). The most common bacteria were streptococcus(20 strains), staphylococcus(13 strains), Propionibacterium(10 strains), and capnocytophaga(10 strains). Only 4 cases(4 eyes; 3.4%)of microbial cultures were positive for Actinomyces. Fungus was negative in all microbial cultures. Treatment: Of the 119 cases(120 eyes), 114 cases(115 eyes; 95.8%)were cured by conservative treatment of removing lacrimal canaliculus stones through lacrimal punctum and intracanalicular ointment infiltration(IOI), while 5 cases(5 eyes)were not effective in conservative treatment; however, all of them were cured after surgical treatment, and the cure rate for primary canaliculitis was 100.0%.CONCLUSION: The incidence of primary canaliculitis is low, and it is prevalent in middle-aged and older female. Single lacrimal canaliculus is more common, which could be missed and misdiagnosed in clinic. Actinomyces is the major pathogen observed mostly in mixed infections, with heterogeneous strains, mainly anaerobic or facultative anaerobic bacteria. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus are the most common whereas fungal canaliculitis is rare. The cure rate of primary canaliculitis is high after diagnosis, and IOI method is recommended as the initial treatment of canaliculitis.

Objective: Rare disease Background: Actinomycosis is a clinically significant but uncommon infectious disease caused by anaerobic commensals of Actinomyces species, and the incidence of thoracic empyema is rare. We report an extremely rare case of empyema caused by Actinomyces naeslundii (A. naeslundii). Case Report: A 39-year-old man presented to our hospital with fever and dyspnea. He had massive pleural effusion and was diagnosed with a left lower-lobe abscess and left thoracic empyema. Thoracic drainage was performed and Ampicillin/Sulbactam was administered for 3 weeks. Four years later, the patient presented with back pain, and chest X-ray showed increased left pleural effusion. After close examination, malignant pleural mesothelioma was suspected, and computed tomography-guided needle biopsy was performed, which yielded a viscous purulent pleural effusion with numerous greenish-yellow sulfur granules. A. naeslundii was identified through anaerobic culture. Thoracoscopic surgery of the empyema cavity was conducted, and Ampicillin/Sulbactam followed by Amoxicillin/Clavulanate was administered for approximately 6 months. No recurrence has been observed for 1 year since the surgical procedure. Conclusions: Actinomyces empyema is a rare condition, and this case is the second reported occurrence of empyema caused by A. naeslundii. The visual identification of sulfur granules contributed to the diagnosis. Long-term antibiotic therapy plays a crucial role in treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently, intestinal bacteria have attracted attention as factors affecting the prognosis of patients with cancer. However, the intestinal microbiome is composed of several hundred types of bacteria, necessitating the development of an analytical method that can allow the use of this information as a highly accurate biomarker. In this study, we investigated whether the preoperative intestinal bacterial profile in patients with esophageal cancer who underwent surgery after preoperative chemotherapy could be used as a biomarker of postoperative recurrence of esophageal cancer. Methods: We determined the gut microbiome of the patients using 16S rRNA metagenome sequencing, followed by statistical analysis. Simultaneously, we performed a machine learning analysis using a random forest model with hyperparameter tuning and compared the data obtained. Results: Statistical and machine learning analyses revealed two common bacterial genera, Butyricimonas and Actinomyces, which were abundant in cases with recurrent esophageal cancer. Butyricimonas primarily produces butyrate, whereas Actinomyces are oral bacteria whose function in the gut is unknown. Conclusion: Our results indicate that Butyricimonas spp. may be a biomarker of postoperative recurrence of esophageal cancer. Although the extent of the involvement of these bacteria in immune regulation remains unknown, future research should investigate their presence in other pathological conditions. Such research could potentially lead to a better understanding of the immunological impact of these bacteria on patients with cancer and their application as biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actinomyces turicensis is rarely responsible of clinically relevant infections in human. Infection is often misdiagnosed as malignancy, tuberculosis, or nocardiosis, therefore delaying the correct identification and treatment. Here we report a case of a 55-year-old immunocompetent adult with brain abscess caused by A. turicensis. A systematic review of A. turicensis infections was performed. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The databases MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Clinicaltrials.gov and Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technology in Health (CADTH) were searched for all relevant literature. Results: Search identified 47 eligible records, for a total of 67 patients. A. turicensis infection was most frequently reported in the anogenital area (n = 21), causing acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) including Fournier's gangrene (n = 12), pulmonary infections (n = 8), gynecological infections (n = 6), cervicofacial district infections (n = 5), intrabdominal or breast infections (n = 8), urinary tract infections (n = 3), vertebral column infections (n = 2) central nervous system infections (n = 2), endocarditis (n = 1). Infections were mostly presenting as abscesses (n = 36), with or without concomitant bacteremia (n = 7). Fever and local signs of inflammation were present in over 60% of the cases. Treatment usually involved surgical drainage followed by antibiotic therapy (n = 51). Antimicrobial treatments most frequently included amoxicillin (+clavulanate), ampicillin/sulbactam, metronidazole or cephalosporins. Eighty-nine percent of the patients underwent a full recovery. Two fatal cases were reported. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, we hereby present the first case of a brain abscess caused by A. turicensis and P. mirabilis. Brain involvement by A. turicensis is rare and may result from hematogenous spread or by dissemination of a contiguous infection. The infection might be difficult to diagnose and therefore treatment may be delayed. Nevertheless, the pathogen is often readily treatable. Diagnosis of actinomycosis is challenging and requires prompt microbiological identification. Surgical excision and drainage and antibiotic treatment usually allow for full recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Destruction of teeth is a serious problem in oral and general health of the human being, and dental caries is one of the major defects of dental hard tissue. Objectives: The objective of this research was to isolate Actinomyces species from dental caries using polymerase chain reaction technology, and to examine the in vitro antibiotic resistance of isolates using a specific 16S rRNA primer to investigate the effect of several anti-bacterial agents, such as amikacin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, cefixime, vancomycin, and erythromycin against Actinomyces species. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighty samples from dental carious lesions were collected and tested for the current study between March and June, 2021. GP-ID cards with 64 biochemical tests were utilized in the automated Vitek-2 Compact system to confirm bacterium isolates. The basis of polymerase chain reaction technology was DNA polymerase's capacity to manufacture a new DNA strand. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was applied to examine the in vitro antibiotic resistance of isolates taken from dental caries using a specific 16S rRNA. RESULTS: Actinomyces meyeri and A. viscosus were detected with 16S rRNA genes using PCR technique. All 18 (100%) A. meyeri identified by Vitek-2 system provided positive results for specific 16S rRNA gene at 519 bp, and all 19 (100%) A. viscosus identified by Vitek-2 system provided positive results for specific 16S rRNA gene at 787 bp. The use of selective antibiotic tests, such as amikacin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, ceftriaxone, cefixime, vancomycin, and erythromycin demonstrated the impact of antibiotics against A. meyeri and A. viscosus isolates. CONCLUSIONS: The detection of Actinomyces spp. with the use of PCR analysis appears to be extreme accurate. Amoxicillin should be considered as the first choice antibiotic for Actinomyces spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actinomyces strains are commonly found as part of the normal microflora on human tissue surfaces, including the oropharynx, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract. Understanding the diversity and characterization of Actinomyces species is crucial for human health, as they play an important role in dental plaque formation and biofilm-related infections. Two Actinomyces strains ATCC 49340 T and ATCC 51655 T have been utilized in various studies, but their accurate species classification and description remain unresolved. Results: To investigate the genomic properties and taxonomic status of these strains, we employed both 16S rRNA Sanger sequencing and whole-genome sequencing using the Illumina HiSeq X Ten platform with PE151 (paired-end) sequencing. Our analyses revealed that the draft genome of Actinomyces acetigenes ATCC 49340 T was 3.27 Mbp with a 68.0% GC content, and Actinomyces stomatis ATCC 51655 T has a genome size of 3.08 Mbp with a 68.1% GC content. Multi-locus (atpA, rpoB, pgi, metG, gltA, gyrA, and core genome SNPs) sequence analysis supported the phylogenetic placement of strains ATCC 51655 T and ATCC 49340 T as independent lineages. Digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH), average nucleotide identity (ANI), and average amino acid identity (AAI) analyses indicated that both strains represented novel Actinomyces species, with values below the threshold for species demarcation (70% dDDH, 95% ANI and AAI). Pangenome analysis identified 5,731 gene clusters with strains ATCC 49340 T and ATCC 51655 T possessing 1,515 and 1,518 unique gene clusters, respectively. Additionally, genomic islands (GIs) prediction uncovered 24 putative GIs in strain ATCC 49340 T and 16 in strain ATCC 51655 T, contributing to their genetic diversity and potential adaptive capabilities. Pathogenicity analysis highlighted the potential human pathogenicity risk associated with both strains, with several virulence-associated factors identified. CRISPR-Cas analysis exposed the presence of CRISPR and Cas genes in both strains, indicating these strains might evolve a robust defense mechanism against them. Conclusion: This study supports the classification of strains ATCC 49340 T and ATCC 51655 T as novel species within the Actinomyces, in which the name Actinomyces acetigenes sp. nov. (type strain ATCC 49340 T = VPI D163E-3 T = CCUG 34286 T = CCUG 35339 T) and Actinomyces stomatis sp. nov. (type strain ATCC 51655 T = PK606T = CCUG 33930 T) are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study discusses a rare case of a brain abscess in a child with a normal immune system. The abscess was caused by two uncommon pathogens, Aggregatibacter aphrophilus and Actinomyces georgiae. The patient experienced severe symptoms such as headache, flashing lights, nausea, and vomiting. The abscess was successfully treated with surgery and antibiotics, and the patient was discharged without any complications. The study emphasizes the importance of considering rare pathogens in the diagnosis and treatment of brain abscesses in children. It also highlights the role of molecular techniques in accurately identifying the pathogens involved. The long-term prognosis for pediatric brain abscesses can vary, but mortality rates have decreased in recent years. [Extracted from the article]

We sought to evaluate the effect of endodontic-causative microorganisms of primary infections on mononuclear cells such as CD14+, CD4+, CD8+, CD19+ and Tregs Foxp3+. Facultative anaerobic microorganisms were isolated from radicular conducts and peripheral blood samples, which were taken from patients with primary infections. Cellular cultures were performed with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with and without Actinomyces spp. and Streptococcus spp. during 48, 72, and 96 h of contact in culture (concentration 5 × 105 cells/well) in a round plate bound with 48 wells. Later, PBMC was collected for analysis by flow cytometry, with the monoclonal antibodies αCD14, αCD4, αCD8, αCD19 and αFoxp3, and acquired using an FACSCanto II cytometer. The supernatant of cellular cultures was analyzed for the quantification of inflammatory cytokines. Data analysis was performed in FlowJo v10.8.2 and FCAPArray software, and statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad v5.0. software. We observed an increase in the percentage of CD14+ cells in patients at different hours of cellular culture in the presence of both Actinomyces spp. and Streptococcus spp. microorganisms, compared to healthy controls. This study demonstrates the role played by the innate immune system in the pathogeny of endodontic primary infections, explaining the effects that generate the more common microorganisms in this oral pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actinomycosis represents a challenging and under-reported complication of vascular surgery. Optimal management of Actinomyces spp. prosthetic vascular graft infection (PVGI) is highly uncertain because of the paucity of reports on this disease. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case-series of Actinomyces-PVGI that occurred in the last five years in two major university hospitals in northern Italy. We searched for previously published cases in the scientific literature. Results: We report five original cases of Actinomyces spp. prosthetic vascular graft infection following aortic aneurysm repair. Our literature review retrieved eight similar cases. Most patients were immunocompetent males. Most infections were polymicrobial (11/13 cases), with a prevalence of A. odontolyticus involvement (3/13 cases were associated with. Salmonella spp. infection). All cases had a late presentation (≥4 months from graft placement), with 61% associated with an aorto-enteric fistula. All patients received antibiotic therapy, but the duration was highly heterogeneous (from two weeks to life-long antibiotics). The patients without surgical revision experienced septic recurrences (2/13), permanent dysfunction (1/13), or a fatal outcome (2/13), while of the remainder who underwent vascular graft explant, six recovered completely and one developed a periprosthetic abscess. In two cases follow-up was not available. Conclusions: This case-series aims to raise the diagnostic suspicion and to describe the current management of Actinomyces-PVGIs. We highlight a high heterogeneity in antibiotic duration, choice of the antibiotic regimen, and surgical management. Higher reporting rate is advisable to produce better evidence and optimize management of this rare complication of vascular surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an increasingly common consequence of antiresorptive treatment, which often leads to the development of necrotic exposed bone surfaces with inflammatory processes affecting the jawbone. Although the development of MRONJ is often associated with the inflammatory response or infections caused by the colonizing members of the oral microbiota, the exact pathogenesis of MRONJ is still not fully understood. In the present paper, we aimed to provide additional, microbiological culture-supported evidence, supporting the "infection hypothesis" that Actinomyces spp. and related organisms may play an important pathogenic role in the development of MRONJ and the resulting bone necrosis. In our case series, all patients presented with similar underlying conditions and anamnestic data, and have received antiresorptive medications (bisphosphonates or a RANK ligand (RANKL) inhibitor) to prevent the occurrence or progression of bone metastases, secondary to prostate cancer. Nevertheless, a few years into antiresorptive drug therapy, varying stages of MRONJ was identified in the mentioned patients. In all three cases, quantitative microbiological culture of the necrotic bone samples yielded a complex microbiota, dominated by Actinomyces and Schaalia spp. with high colony counts. Additionally, our followed-up case series document the treatment of these patients with a combination of surgical intervention and long-term antibiotic therapy, where favourable clinical responses were seen is all cases. If the "infection hypothesis" is valid, it may have significant consequences in the preventative and therapeutic strategies associated with this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actinomyces is a genus of Gram-positive anaerobic or microaerophilic bacteria with a branched filamentous shape. Their presence in tonsil tissue is usually determined by histopathological examination. In the crypts of removed tonsils, they have a prevalence ranging from 0.8% to 61.6%. The role of Actinomyces in diseases of the palatine tonsils is not clearly defined. The aim of the study was to determine the importance of Actinomyces in the pathology of palatine tonsils and to assess the impact of these bacteria on the clinical data. Methods: the retrospective analysis of the histopathological findings of patients undergoing tonsillectomy in our hospital from January 2017 to the end of December 2019 was performed in terms of the occurrence of Actinomyces. The data were collected based on the medical history. The study included 481 patients aged 3–82 years. From the study group, 100 adult patients were randomly selected, and a telephone survey was conducted. The questions included the co-occurrence of bronchial asthma, halitosis, tonsilloliths, and cigarette smoking. The questions were related to the complications following tonsillectomy and the severity of postoperative pain. Existence of a relationship was investigated between occurrence of tonsillar Actinomyces and age, sex, body mass index, and medical condition (obstructive sleep apnea, chronic palatine tonsillitis), respectively. The size of the removed tonsils was assessed and compared depending on the presence of the bacteria. Results: patients aged 18 years and older had a higher probability of presenting Actinomyces. The estimated odds ratio for the presence of the bacteria per year of age was 1.023 [1.007, 1.041]. No statistically significant results were found for the other variables. The co-occurrence of the bacteria and halitosis was close to statistical significance (p = 0.064). Conclusions: multivariate analysis of the role of Actinomyces in tonsillar pathology showed that these microorganisms should be considered saprophytes of the oropharyngeal microflora that had no significant relationship with the pathology of palatine tonsils. Further studies on their influence on halitosis are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinomyces species are recognized as common mucosal bacteria in humans and as a newly discovered source of infection. Since its discovery in 1995, the subspecies Actinomyces turicensis has been reported as the causative pathogen of numerous infections. Only two instances of A. turicensis-related empyema, however, have been documented in the literature as of late. We report a unique case of polymicrobial empyema caused by A. turicensis shortly after a COVID-19 without any clear risk factors for anaerobic aspiration, along with a brief review of the literature. Tetracycline was successfully used for the first time to treat A. turicensis empyema, following chest drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a rare and severe form of chronic pyelonephritis called xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP). XGP is characterized by the destruction of the renal parenchyma and granulomatous inflammation. The article presents a case study of a 58-year-old man with XGP and renal sinus replacement lipomatosis, in which the renal parenchyma has almost completely disappeared. The patient had a history of diabetes mellitus and renal nephrolithiasis. The article describes the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and microscopic examination of the patient's condition. The authors propose the term "vanishing kidney" for this unique case, as the kidney parenchyma was not detectable radiologically or microscopically. The article also discusses the classification, stages, and complications of XGP, as well as the rare occurrence of Actinomyces infection in XGP. [Extracted from the article]

Actinomycosis remains a rare and often underdiagnosed cause of appendicitis with only 10% of cases diagnosed prior to surgery. It is an important cause to consider particularly in the setting of an indolent infection with nonspecific symptoms. We present a 22 years old male who presented with 3 weeks history of lower abdominal pain who underwent laboratory investigations and imaging studies suggestive of acute appendicitis. He underwent an emergency laparoscopic caecectomy with histopathology of the specimen suggestive of actinomycosis. He recovered well postoperatively and was discharged home with a prolonged course of oral penicillins. Preoperative diagnosis of actinomycosis is uncommon and accounts for ~10% of cases. Definitive diagnosis is usually through histopathology or tissue/fluid culture. Treatment usually involves a combination of surgical resection and antibiotic therapy with a success rate of >90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary actinomycosis is an uncommon clinical entity that can be challenging to diagnose due to its non-specific symptomatology. Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment may result in invasive procedures and extended antimicrobial treatment courses. We report a case involving a 65-year-old female with poor oral dentition admitted for acute respiratory failure subsequently found to have a left-sided pleural effusion and perihepatic abscess formation. Cytopathology examination and microbiology studies confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary actinomycosis.