Actualización en otras infecciones bacterianas crónicas: actinomicosis y brucelosis

Abstract

Actinomycosis is a rare granulomatous infection caused by bacteria of the Actinomyces genus. Its diagnosis, which is often not suspected, is based on visualization of the germ or of the so-called «sulfur granules» in histological samples and/or its isolation and microbiological identification. It produces nonspecific symptoms that depend on its location. It should be suspected in chronic and indolent infections that form masses or fistulas and appear to be neoplasms, lack of a cure, or relapse following the administration of antibiotics. Actinomycosis has a good prognosis. Treatment with antibiotics, especially penicillin, is given at high doses and for a long period of time.Brucellosis is a zoonosis produced by Brucella spp. Most infections occur due to contact with livestock or intake of non-pasteurized dairy products. It should be suspected in epidemiologically suitable environments in patients with prolonged fever, spondylodiscitis, sacroiliitis, orchiepididymitis, endocarditis with a negative culture, or lymphocytic meningitis. Its diagnosis depends on the disease stage and is based on direct and indirect methods. Combination therapy with tetracyclines and aminoglycosides are used to treat it.