Pelvic actinomycosis

Abstract

Pelvic actinomycosis is a rare chronic infection caused by bacteria of the family Actinomycetaceae. Prolonged use of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) is a well known risk factor. We report six patients with pelvic actinomycosis, all of whom had an IUD inserted for over six years. Diagnostic problems necessitated a laparotomy in all patients. The pathohistological diagnosis was based on the characteristic microscopic image and specific staining. The patients were treated with penicillin and amoxycillin for several months.