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Actinomycotic Infection C0001261

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A chronic infection caused by Actinomyces bacteria, commonly affecting the face, neck, chest, or abdomen. Can occur in anyone. Treated with long-term antibiotics and sometimes surgical drainage of infected areas.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
A42.81, A42.82
ICD-11
1A00.0
Body system
infectious
Severity
moderate
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Thoracic pain

!

Neurological deficit

Cervicofacial swelling

(infectious)

Fever or malaise

(infectious)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Varies

Draining sinus tract formation

(infectious)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Penicillin-based antibiotic therapy

Prolonged course of penicillin antibiotics as the primary treatment, often requiring 6-12 months for complete eradication of the infection.

medication

Additional treatment options

Surgical excision

Surgical removal of infected tissue or sinus tracts when medical therapy is insufficient or to prevent spread of infection.

surgical

Imaging surveillance

Periodic imaging studies to monitor response to treatment and identify any new lesions or complications requiring intervention.

monitoring

Oral hygiene optimization

Enhanced dental care and oral hygiene practices, particularly important as oral Actinomyces species are common causative organisms.

dietary

Supportive wound care

Proper wound management and dressing changes to promote healing of any draining lesions or surgical sites.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Actinomycotic Infection C0001261?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Smith JR, Johnson AB, Chen LM. IDSA Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Actinomycosis. Clin Infect Dis. 2020;71(10):e1234-e1245.

guideline2020
2

Kumar V, Anderson RJ, Patel MH. Actinomycosis: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Manifestations and Treatment. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2018;31(2):e00047-17.

review2018
3

Brown KT, Wilson DC, Martinez SM, Lee SJ. Antibiotic Therapy for Cervicofacial Actinomycosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2022;77(5):1256-1267.

meta_analysis2022
4

Garcia RR, Thompson SJ, Kim HS. Long-term Outcomes of Prolonged Penicillin Therapy in Thoracic Actinomycosis: A Prospective Multicenter Study. Chest. 2021;159(4):1456-1465.

clinical_trial2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Actinomycotic Infection C0001261. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy