Actinomycosis turicensis secondary to oral trauma as a cause of recurrent breast abscess

Background: Actinomycosis is a rare chronic infection, caused by species of the bacterium Actinomyces spp. This report proposes oral trauma as a cause of infection. Methods: A literature review was performed and included with this case report. Results: A young adult female of indigenous Australian descent presented with a recurrent left breast abscess to a rural hospital. She has previously undergone nine operations for abscess in the past 2 years. Shortly prior to her first presentation, a sexual partner with dental infection bit her peri-areolar area. On review of her case, it was noted that her culture from the first operation was positive for actinomyces spp. She was treated with long term IV antibiotics and had no further recurrences of infection. Oral trauma to the peri-areolar area by an individual with pre-existing dental disease has led to the introduction and establishment of this pathogen in the ductal system of the breast. Conclusion: This infection should be considered in cases of treatment resistant recurrent breast abscess.