Cutaneous Actinomycosis Research Paper

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Cutaneous Actinomycosis is an anaerobic, gram positive bacterial infection seen in different areas of the body, most commonly affecting the deeper tissues of the neck, thorax, and abdomen. Actinomycosis is caused in animals by the bacteria Actinomyces bovis and Actinomyces israelii in humans, which is naturally present in the mouth and pharynx. The infection is commonly seen in tropical areas of the country and is characterized by chronic and progressive suppurative inflammation, causing lumpy tumor like masses. Cutaneous Actinomycosis rarely occurs and presents itself with few clinical symptoms. The infection develops slowly and at first seems to not affect the general health of the patient, but if it is not treated successfully the condition may be fatal. Its diagnosis requires a high index of clinical suspicion. Occurrences of the extremities are uncommon and sometimes have an association with trauma and bites. Although it is a rare, cattle and humans are the ones usually diagnosed with this disease. It has also been seen in middle-aged, large breed, outdoor dogs and in cats. …show more content…

Also, at first the microorganism was classified as a fungus because of their tendency to produce branching filaments. In order for the bacteria to cause infection there has to be a break in the mucous membranes or skin and the presence of dead tissue to invade deeper body structures. This can happen with a bite, traumatic event, or because of a puncture wound. Once it penetrates into the deeper tissue, where there is less oxygen and it thrives, it begins to create colonies creating lumps in the jaws of cattle. In some cases pyrexia and has been reported. This disease does not only affect animals but humans as well. It is not classified as zoonotic because different strains of the bacteria affect humans and

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