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Dual pathology: cervicofacial actinomycosis and nicorandil-induced oral ulceration

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 May 2007

H E V Cupples  and
D T McGahey
H E V Cupples*
Affiliation:
Ear, Nose & Throat – Regional Head & Neck Cancer Centre, The Royal Group of Hospitals and Social Services Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
D T McGahey
Affiliation:
Ear, Nose & Throat – Regional Head & Neck Cancer Centre, The Royal Group of Hospitals and Social Services Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Dr H E Victoria Cupples, 2 Barnoak Lane, Belfast BT5 7GW, Northern Ireland, UK. Fax: 01332822813 E-mail: victoria.cupples@btinternet.com
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Abstract

Introduction:

Oral ulceration has many causes and is a common presenting symptom in otolaryngology.

Case report:

This article presents an unusual case of dual pathology oral ulceration in an elderly patient. Oral malignancy was initially suspected, but the history, examination and investigation showed that the oral ulceration was caused by actinomycosis infection and by nicorandil use.

Discussion:

Cervicofacial acinomycosis is a rare, suppurative bacterial disease in which abscesses can form in the tissues and break through the skin, creating pus-discharging lesions. Nicorandil is a potassium channel blocker used in the treatment of ischaemic heart disease. It has been recently recognised as a cause of persistent ulcerative stomatitis.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the importance of a high index of suspicion for unusual and reversible causes of oral ulceration, and of dual pathology as a cause. Such vigilance enables early recognition and treatment of potentially reversible conditions.

Keywords

Oral UlcerActinomycosisNicorandil
Type
Clinical Record
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 122 , Issue 4 , April 2008 , pp. 422 - 424
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2007

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