In simple words: Actinomycetoma is a long-term infection caused by bacteria. It starts as a painless swelling under the skin and can eventually damage deep tissues and bones, causing deformities and loss of function. The bacteria usually enters the body through a small cut or injury, often on the foot.

Actinomycetoma refers to an infection caused by bacteria (actinomycetes) which progresses over an extended period of time from a painless subcutaneous swelling to deep tissue and bone destruction with deformity and loss of function. The bacteria enters the body through a minor cut, injury, or thorn prick and usually involves the foot but may also affect other body parts.

Example 1: A farmer in a tropical region develops a painless lump on his foot, which slowly enlarges and hardens over several months.Eventually, pus-containing grainy material drains from the lesion. This presentation suggests actinomycetoma., A herder presents with a long-standing, non-tender swelling on their lower leg.A biopsy reveals the presence of actinomycetes, confirming a diagnosis of actinomycetoma., A forest worker with a history of minor injuries to their feet develops multiple nodules and sinus tracts on one foot, discharging pus with granules. This chronic infection is indicative of actinomycetoma.

Documentation should include: patient's occupation and environmental exposure, physical examination findings (size, location, and characteristics of the lesion), biopsy results, culture results of the discharge, and microscopic examination of granules in the discharge.