Actinomycotic canaliculitis: resolution following surgery and short topical antibiotic treatment.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to study the incidence and clinical characteristics of patients diagnosed with actinomycotic canaliculitis in Iceland.

METHODS

We present a nationwide, retrospective case series for which cases were identified by searches of hospital diagnostic registries and pathology databases. Case histories were reviewed and histopathological analysis repeated to confirm the diagnosis.

RESULTS

Nine cases of actinomycotic canaliculitis were diagnosed in Iceland during 1988-2007. Subjects included six women and three men and represented 16% of all patients diagnosed with actinomycosis in the country. The incidence was 0.16 cases/100 000 inhabitants/year. Age-specific incidence rates were 0.59 cases/100 000 inhabitants/year for the 40-59-year-old age group and 1.37 cases/100 000 inhabitants/year for individuals aged 60-79 years. All patients underwent a three-way snip procedure and 1 week of topical antibacterial therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Actinomycotic canaliculitis is an uncommon condition which frequently eludes diagnosis. Topical antibiotics for 1 week may be sufficient following surgery, a finding which contrasts with previous reports.