CANALICULAR INFECTION CAUSED BY ACTINOMYCES

We present 7 cases of canalicular involvement with Actinomyces collect ed over a 5-year period. All patients had involvement of one canalicul us, upper or lower, with lacrimal drainage patent to syringing. Curett ings obtained by incising the involved canaliculi yielded Actinomyces species (5 cases) and Arachnia propionica (2 cases), typically in asso ciation with a mixed bacterial growth. Our results show that these pat ients often remain undiagnosed for months or even years, and are treat ed in-appropriately for their recurrent symptoms. Despite sensitivity of Actinomyces to a broad spectrum of antibiotics, medical therapy alo ne does not eradicate the disease, and surgical evacuation of all conc retions is essential to achieve a cure.