Actinobacillosis is the disease caused by Actinobacillus bacteria. Several different forms of this disease occur, depending on the exact type of bacteria and the animal affected. Infections of the skin and muscles are common, and nearby lymph nodes are commonly involved. Infection can spread to other parts of the body. Bone close to infected muscles or other body parts can also be affected.
One type of Actinobacillus causes thick, tumorlike abscesses (pockets of pus) on the tongue (referred to as “wooden tongue”). It can also infect areas of the head, neck, legs, and sometimes the lungs. These bacteria normally live within mucus in the digestive tract and cause disease when they go deeper into the body, like through a deep cut or wound. The infection can stay in the area where it began in the body or spread to other areas through lymph channels.
This condition occurs worldwide but is uncommon and unpredictable. Treatment can involve antibiotics and surgery to remove infected body parts.
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