Microbiology Test

Test : Actinomyces culture


Indications : Actinomycosis is a chronic progressive suppurative disease forming multiple abscesses, draining sinuses, and dense fibrosis.

Physiology : Several species of Actinomyces are responsible for human infections. Actinomyces israelli is the most common. Pelvic and perirectal infections has been associated with intrauterine devices.

Normal Range : No actinomyces isolated.

Interpretation : Actinomyces produce chronic suppuration with formation of multiple draining sinuses. The presence of sulfur granules is highly suggestive of Actinomyces infection. Granules are detected on the gauze pad covering a draining sinus.

Sample : Exudate, draining sinus collection.

Test Method : Anaerobic culture

Related Tests : Acid fast stain, Biopsy, Endometrium culture, Nocardia culture.

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