Management of Intrauterine Device-Associated Actinomycosis

Abstract

Objective: To assess various methods of management of actinomyces-like organisms associated with intrauterine devices. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 173 patients with intrauterine device-associated actinomyces-like organisms detected on Pap smear was performed. The patients were managed by IUD removal with or without antibiotic therapy, antibiotic therapy alone, or no treatment at all. Results: The success rate as reflected in negative follow-up smear was 100% for IUD removal combined with antibiotics, 97.4% for IUD removal alone, and 36.8% for antibiotics therapy alone. Conclusions: The best way to manage intrauterine device-associated actinomyces-like organisms is removal of the device with or without antibiotics. © 1993, Wiley-Liss, Inc.