Actinomyces

Question 1

Microbiology of actinomyces

Answer 1

Gram positive rod, anaerobic

Question 2

Where do actinomyces usually live

Answer 2

Part of the normal flora of the mouth, GI, and GU

Question 3

Are actinomyces acid fast?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

What about Nocardia, what do they look like and are they acid fast?

Answer 4

They are also gram positive rods with branching heads, they are partly acid fast. They are also aerobic instead of anaerobic

Question 5

When do actinomyces infections generally occur?

Answer 5

They are opportunistic pathogens, usually affect ppl with chronic disease.
May attach when mucosa is disrupted due to dental plaque, tonsillar crypts, etc…

Question 6

WHat to look for

Answer 6

eroding abscesses with sulfur granules of solidified yellow masses

Question 7

Symptoms

Answer 7

Sputum producing cough, lethargy, night sweats, wt loss

Question 8

Treat

Answer 8

IV penicillin 4-6 weeks, oralpenicillin for several months