Actinomycosis

Actinomycosis is a bacterial infection caused by a type of bacteria called Actinomyces, which normally live in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. When these bacteria invade tissues due to injury or a break in the mucous membranes, they can cause slow-growing, swollen lumps, often with pus and sometimes forming abscesses or sinuses that drain called "fistulas." The infection can spread to nearby tissues and organs if untreated. It is typically diagnosed through clinical examination and lab tests, and treated effectively with long-term antibiotics. Early detection and treatment usually lead to a good recovery.