A Case of Actinomycosis of the Maxilla with Bone Resorption

Abstract

Actinomycosis is an inflammatory bacterial disease caused by Actinomyces species. It often occurs around the mandible and rarely in the maxilla. Early detection and subsequent treatment reduce its severity. Recently, there has been a significant reduction in the incidence of actinomycosis in Japan because of early antibiotic administration. Because an intractable oral ulcer is an early symptom, it is important for oral surgeons to detect actinomycosis, if present, and to be able to differentiate between oral cancer and actinomycosis during the initial patient consultation. Here we report a case of maxillary resorption caused by actinomycosis. An 86-year-old female was referred to our hospital because of swelling of the right maxilla. Physical examination revealed diffuse swelling with induration in the maxillary right premolar region. An X-ray and computed tomography examination revealed bone destruction of the right maxilla. We performed surgical curettage and biopsy, and the result of histopathological diagnosis was maxillary actinomycotic infection. There has been no sign of recurrence since the treatment.