Asymptomatic actinomycosis in a girl with thalassemia major

Abstract

We present a rare case of lung actinomycosis in a girl with thalassemia major with a competent immunological status. Chest computed tomography scans showed high intensity nodules in the right lower lung. Diagnosis was confirmed by revealing of actonomycetes from the staining of bronchoalveolar fluid. The patient was given intravenous penicillin then oral amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. This patient responded well after antibiotic treatment for four months. Our report suggests that clinicians should evaluate the immune response underlying asymptomatic infections before conducting hematopoietic stem cell transplantations.