Esophageal Actinomycoses Mimicking Malignancy.

Abstract

Actinomycosis is caused by anaerobic bacteria and rarely affects the esophagus. We present a case of esophageal actinomycosis in a 55-year old woman that mimicked malignancy. The patient presented with dysphagia and weight loss. Preoperative esophagogastroscopic biopsy revealed purulent material, but was inconclusive. Endoscopic ultrasonography suggested esophageal cancer, and chest computed tomography showed a mass in the lower esophagus surrounded by inflammation. The patient underwent esophagogastrectomy, and histopathology examination of the specimen revealed distal esophageal actinomycosis. Preoperative diagnosis of esophageal actinomycosis is difficult, but clinicians should be aware of its unusual presentations and its ability to mimic malignancy.