CTICasesCervicofacial Actinomycosis with Mediastinal Extension
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Imaging findings
Enhancing soft tissue is observed in the lower neck, superior to the larynx and thyroid, extending inferiorly into the mediastinum. This large, infiltrating process is seen to be involving and infiltrating around the sternum.
Key takeaways
The patient presented with a palpable neck mass, initially raising concern given a history of adnexal skin cancer. However, biopsy of the infiltrating soft tissue grew Actinomycosis, with negative staining for cancer. Actinomyces is known for its ability to cross tissue planes and commonly affects the head, neck, and lung. It's presumed to have originated from a micro tear (e.g., from eating) and spread into the chest.
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