Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Respiratory system

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Pulmonary actinomycosis

Alternative Names: Actinomycosis pulmonary Treatment: The objective of therapy is to control the infection, but response is slow. Prolonged therapy with penicillin or a substitute is necessary to ensure a cure. Surgical drainage of the pleural effusion may be necessary to control the infection. Text Continues Below Alternative antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, macrolides, or clindamycin, may be used in patients who cannot take penicillin. Expectations (prognosis): The probable outcome is good after treatment with antibiotics. Complications: sinus tracts in the neck, face, or chest brain abscess meningitis osteomyelitis empyema Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if symptoms of pulmonary actinomycosis develop. Also call if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.