What does Actinomyces look like?

Actinomyces species are facultatively anaerobic (except A. meyeri and A. israelii are obligate anaerobe), and they grow best under anaerobic conditions. Actinomyces species may form endospores, and while individual bacteria are rod-shaped, Actinomyces colonies form fungus-like branched networks of hyphae.

What are the symptoms of actinomycosis?

Symptoms

Draining sores in the skin, especially on the chest wall from lung infection with actinomyces.
Fever.
Mild or no pain.
Swelling or a hard, red to reddish-purple lump on the face or upper neck.
Weight loss.

What bacteria causes lumpy jaw?

Actinomycosis, commonly called ‘Lumpy Jaw’, is caused by the bacteria Actinomyces bovis, which is a normal inhabitant of the bovine mouth. Actinomycosis is a chronic bacterial disease and is more common in cattle than in goats and sheep.

What is lumpy jaw caused by?

Actinomycosis (lumpy jaw) is caused by a bacteria introduced to face tissues by trauma, surgery or infection. Long term treatment with antibiotics is often required.

What happens if leaving actinomycosis untreated?

Potential Long-Term Complications Actinomycosis starts in the soft tissues of the body, but it can infect any surrounding bone if it’s left untreated. Surgery may be necessary to remove any infected bone. If the infection resides in the nasal sinuses, surgery may be required to remove damaged bone and tissue.

Is lumpy jaw infectious?

Lumpy jaw is an infectious bacterial disease commonly referred to as ‘actino’. This disease is similar to wooden tongue and has the potential to be fatal. Treatment can be successful if disease is detected early. It is most commonly seen in cattle.

What does lumpy jaw look like?

Lumpy jaw can occur in bony and soft tissues, but is predominantly seen in the bones of the upper and lower jaw. The first symptom noted is usually swelling, as the bone becomes enlarged and honeycombed, and full of pus.

What does lumpy jaw feel like?

You may notice the swelling in the form of a movable lump on one or both sides of your jaw. These lumps may feel soft but be painful or sore to the touch. Chills, fever, or a runny nose can also indicate that you’re experiencing a swollen lymph node.

Is actinomycosis curable?

If you get proper treatment for actinomycosis, it’s highly curable and you’ll likely make a full recovery.