Actinomyces urogenitalis


Actinomyces urogenitalis is a species of Gram-positive and facultative anaerobic bacteria in the genus Actinomyces. It was formally described in 2000 after isolation from clinical specimens taken from the human urogenital tract.

Etymology

The specific epithet urogenitalis combines Latin urina and genitalis, referencing the anatomical source of the original isolates.

Morphology and physiology

A. urogenitalis is a non-spore-forming, rod-shaped bacterium. Colonies on solid media appear white, rough and dry; cells occur singly or in short chains and stain Gram-positive. The organism is catalase-negative and grows under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Clinical relevance

A. urogenitalis has been cultured from human urine and urethral specimens, suggesting it forms part of the urogenital microbiota and can act as an opportunistic pathogen. Subsequent reports have shown its ability to cause invasive disease: an intra-uterine contraceptive device–associated pelvic actinomycosis in a woman demonstrated deep-seated infection potential, while a separate case of bacteremia with a urinary-tract focus in a man with prolonged urinary retention confirmed pathogenicity in males. These observations indicate that A. urogenitalis may contribute to urinary tract infections and other urogenital conditions in both sexes.