Abstract
Actinomycosis is a chronic, indolent infection primarily caused by Actinomyces israelii, an anaerobic or microaerophilic, Gram-positive, filamentous bacterium. While cervicofacial actinomycosis accounts for the majority of cases, exclusive lower lip involvement is exceedingly rare. This case report presents a 36-year-old male who developed a painless, slowly enlarging swelling on the lower lip over one month. Initially suspected as a mucocele, ranula, or fibroma, histopathological examination disclosed characteristic sulfur granules and filamentous bacterial colonies consistent with actinomycosis. Surgical excision and a four-week antibiotic regimen with penicillin resulted in complete resolution. This case highlights the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of actinomycosis, performing careful histopathological evaluation, and considering prolonged antibiotic therapy for definitive treatment.
Keywords: Actinomycosis, Lower Lip, Oral Histopathology, Case Report, Antibiotic Therapy, Surgical Excision.
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Corresponding Author
Prof. Dr. Farag A. Bleiblo
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v13i01.04
