Esophageal actinomycosis – a rare cause of odynophagia in an HIV patient

Abstract

Odynophagia is a common complaint among individuals living with HIV, with candidiasis
being the predominant cause. We present a case of 38-year-old man with poorly controlled HIV
who presented with odynophagia and oropharyngeal candidiasis that is refractory to antifungal
therapy. Further investigations showed esophageal candidiasis with esophageal ulcers, which
pathology revealed extensive filamentous bacteria in addition to fungal hyphae. Diagnosis of
esophageal candidiasis superimposed with actinomycosis was made, and he responded well
to amoxicillin in addition to fluconazole therapy.
Keywords: Esophageal actinomycosis, Actinomycosis, Actinomyces, HIV