actinomycosis

An infection caused by certain actinomycetes, that may result in bony degeneration of the jaws, and abscesses in the lungs, intestines, etc. of humans and other mammals.

Ac`ti*no*my*co"sis (?), n. [NL.] (Med.)

A chronic infectious disease of cattle and man due to the presence of Actinomyces bovis. It causes local suppurating tumors, esp. about the jaw. Called also lumpy jaw or big jaw. -- Ac`ti*no*my*cot"ic (#), a.

© Webster 1913