Actinomyces turicensis Necrotizing Soft-Tissue Infection of the Thigh in a Diabetic Male.

Background

Necrotizing soft-tissue infections are a devastating infection that is rarely caused by Actinomyces spp. Case Report: A 45-year-old obese previously healthy male presented to the emergency department with diabetic ketoacidosis. The patient developed systemic signs of infections and right medial thigh pain subsequently diagnosed as a necrotizing soft-tissue infection. Successful treatment included prompt surgical intervention and initiation of broad-spectrum antimicrobial drugs.

Conclusion

Actinomyces turicensis may be the pathogen causing certain necrotizing soft-tissue infections. Clinicians should consider the possibility that this organism represents a true pathogen and not colonization/contamination.