이하선 농양으로 오인한 경부안면형 방선균증 1예

Abstract

Actinomycosis is a disease caused by anaerobic bacteria caled Actinomyces species (predominantly Actinomyces israelii), which is a comon and normally nonpathogenic organism found in the nose and throat. The four major clinical presentations of actinomycosis include the cervicofacial, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic region. Actinomycosis is difficult to diagnose because of variable presentation and fastidious nature of the organism in culture. A high index of suspicion and biopsy are often nece-sary to make the diagnosis, because the disease can mimic neoplasm or a chronic granulomatous infection. We present, with the appropriate review, a case of actinomycosis in the mandibular angle area which was mistaken for a parotid abscess. (Korean J Otolaryngol 2007 ;50 :87-9)