A rare but important cause for appendicitis: actinomyces

Compromised abdominal wall integrity in the gastrointestinal system and the presence of an intrauterine device (IUD) facilitates the development of intra-abdominal infections.1 We present an actino- myces related appendicitis case because of its rarity and need for additional treatment. Postsurgical pathological examination or medi- cation treatment for actinomycosis is necessary to prevent potential development of inner-abdominal actinomycosis abscess and fistulae.2 Debridement and drainage may be performed by laparotomy if abscess or fistulae develop; alternatively percutaneous drain- age and antibiotic treatment may be given.3 The cecum and appendix may be resected together4 or a right hemicolectomy may be performed if acti- nomycosis develops an abscess mass invading the appendix and cecum.