Actinomycosis abscess of the thyroid gland.

Objectives: To present an unusual case of actinomycosis abscess of the thyroid gland as well as review the history, etiology, pathogenicity and treatment of actinomycosis infections of the head and neck.

Study Design: Case study.

Methods: A report of a 39 year-old female status post tooth extraction that developed an actinomycosis abscess of the thyroid.

Results: After a thyroid actinomycosis abscess was suggested by physical exam, ultrasound, CT scan and needle aspiration, an otolaryngology consult was obtained. The patient successfully was managed with thyroidectomy and intravenous ceftriaxone.

Conclusions: Although Actinomycosis soft tissue infections of the head and neck are relatively uncommon, the head and neck surgeon must include it in the differential diagnosis when clinical presentation raises suspicion. Early biopsy is necessary for appropriate identification of the organism with the appearance of sulfur granules lending a clue to the diagnosis. Debridement and/or excision are often necessary for antibiotics to be used successfully. Antimicrobial therapy should be used for six to twelve months to completely eradicate the disease and prevent recurrence.