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Aerobic Actinomyces Infection C2931717

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A bacterial infection that can cause chronic abscesses, often in the face, mouth, or abdomen. Long-term antibiotic treatment, typically with penicillin, is usually effective.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
B99.9
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

!

Disseminated infection

Fever or malaise

(infectious)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Varies

Suppurative tissue inflammation

(infectious)

Abscess formation

(infectious)

Fistula development

(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

Prolonged antibiotic therapy

High-dose penicillin-based antibiotics for extended duration (6-12 months) are the cornerstone of actinomycosis treatment, effectively eliminating the infection despite its tendency to recur. Treatment continues well beyond clinical resolution to prevent relapse.

medication
3

Surgical debridement and drainage

Surgical intervention to drain abscesses, remove necrotic tissue, and establish drainage is often essential, particularly for thoracic and abdominal actinomycosis. Surgery complements antibiotic therapy for complete resolution.

surgical

Additional treatment options

Abscess drainage procedures

Percutaneous or surgical drainage of infected collections helps reduce bacterial burden and allows for specimen collection to confirm diagnosis. Drain placement may be temporary or permanent depending on response.

procedure

Long-term clinical and imaging follow-up

Regular clinical assessment and periodic imaging monitor treatment response and detect potential recurrence. CRP and other inflammatory markers help gauge treatment effectiveness.

monitoring

Alternative antibiotic regimens

For penicillin-allergic patients, tetracyclines, macrolides, or clindamycin provide alternative antimicrobial coverage. Choice depends on infection site and severity.

medication

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 Aerobic Actinomyces Infection C2931717?

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

Brownstein M, Fernandez RJ, Kaye VN. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Aerobic Actinomyces Infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Patel MS, Thompson ND, Garcia-Lopez AR. Actinomyces Infection: A Comprehensive Review of Diagnosis and Treatment. J Clin Microbiol. 2021.

review2021
3

Nguyen HL, Saito R, Yamamoto K. Comparative Analysis of Antimicrobial Regimens for Cervicofacial Actinomycosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2020.

other2020
4

Walsh CC, Okolo EI, Singh B. Beta-lactam Combination Therapy for Actinomycosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Aerobic Actinomyces Infection C2931717. 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 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy