Work

A Rare Case of Actinomycosis in a Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Actinomycosis is a rare, chronic infection caused by Actinomyces species, which are normal commensals of human mucosa. It commonly involves the orocervicofacial, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic regions. It can also affect other sites, such as cutaneous tissue, as seen in our case. We report a case of a 35-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis on immunosuppressive therapy who developed a large, nodular cutaneous actinomycosis lesion over the right calf. A biopsy confirmed Actinomyces, and she responded to a six-month course of amoxicillin-clavulanate. However, the lesion recurred a year later, requiring surgical excision due to persistent disease despite prolonged antibiotic therapy. Over a two-year follow-up, no further recurrence was noted. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of cutaneous actinomycosis, particularly in SLE patients, and emphasizes the role of histopathological confirmation, prolonged antibiotic therapy, and surgical intervention when necessary.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.93432

Authors: Vinaya Gopalaswamy, Sarit S Pattanaik, Manoj K Parida, Saumya R Tripathy, Bidyut K Das

Institution: Sriram Chandra Bhanja Medical College Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Actinomycetales infections and treatment

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414585984