Actinomycotic suppurative thyroiditis in a child

Abstract

Aim: To present a rare case of actinomycotic suppurative thyroiditis in an infant with provision of the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical findings and treatment of this rare disease. Design: A report of an 18-month-old female infant who presented with fever, erythema, induration and tenderness of the neck. The patient had the diagnosis of acute suppurative thyroiditis after a series of laboratory evaluation. Result: She was treated successfully with surgical debridement and intravenous penicillin G. Conclusion: Although rare, Actinomyces spp. should be considered in the etiology of acute suppurative thyroiditis. Because of its fastidious nature the probability of positive culture is low, thus, the microbiology laboratory should be called in advance to make preparations before culture and transport. © The Author [2005]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.