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What is the significance of Actinomycosis found on a routine pap smear in a woman with an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) in situ?

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What is the significance of Actinomycosis found on a routine pap smear in a woman with an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) in situ?

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Colonization of an IUCD with a fungus (actinomycosis) is usually detected through cervical cytology (PAP smears). After five years of continuous use of an IUCD, more than 20 percent of cervical smears may show evidence of this organism. Frank actinomycotic infection is potentially life threatening. Demonstration of the organism in the cervical smear of a woman with an IUCD raises the possibility of serious pelvic infection. If the woman is entirely asymptomatic she may be counseled about a slight increase risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and be followed closely. Alternatively she may be treated with ten to fourteen days of penicillin, tetracycline or erythromycin. The most conservative treatment however, is removal of the device and appropriate follow-up.

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