Considered to be a rare condition, actinomycosis is reported to affect 1 per every 300,000 people each year in the U.S., according to a 2020 case study and research review published in the American Journal of Case Reports. Furthermore, a person can be diagnosed with different types of this infectious disease, including pelvic actinomycosis.
“Pelvic actinomycosis is a rare, chronic infection of the pelvic organs caused by a type of bacteria called Actinomyces,” says Parmeet Kaur, pelvic floor therapist specializing in women’s health, in an exclusive interview with Health Digest. “Pelvic actinomycosis is caused by the bacteria Actinomyces, which can enter the body through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, such as during childbirth, surgery, or intrauterine device (IUD) insertion.”
“When a woman has pelvic actinomycosis, she may experience symptoms such as pelvic pain, fever, vaginal discharge, and abscesses or masses in the pelvic area,” Kaur explains. “In some cases, the infection may spread to nearby organs such as the bladder or rectum.”
Diagnosis and treatment of pelvic actinomycosis
Kaur goes on to tell Health Digest how clinicians go about detecting pelvic actinomycosis in patients. “Most cases of pelvic actinomycosis are diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, and tissue or fluid sampling to identify the presence of Actinomyces bacteria,” she explains.
Depending on the severity of the infection, Kaur states that treatment options may vary on a case-by-case basis. “Treatment for pelvic actinomycosis typically involves a long course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria,” she says. “In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove abscesses or masses in the pelvic area.”
For cases of pelvic actinomycosis related to IUD insertion, Kaur states that a direct treatment intervention isn’t always needed. “Women who have an IUD and are experiencing symptoms of pelvic actinomycosis may need to have the IUD removed,” she explains. Kaur concludes the interview, stating, “It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.”
To learn more about Parmeet Kaur and her services, visit Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Calgary
