In which condition would you most likely find yellowish granules in drainage near the angle of the mandible?

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Prepare for the Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice quizzes, complete with hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

In the scenario described, yellowish granules found in drainage near the angle of the mandible are characteristic of actinomycosis, particularly a condition known as cervicofacial actinomycosis. This condition is caused by Actinomyces bacteria, which are anaerobic and normally reside in the oral cavity and the gastrointestinal tract.

The yellowish granules are known as "sulfur granules" and are composed of colonies of the bacteria and host tissue. This manifestation occurs when the infection leads to the formation of abscesses and draining sinuses in the area, commonly associated with the mandible.

Recognizing the presence of these granules is crucial for diagnosis, as they provide a key visual indication of actinomycosis. Treatment typically involves long-term antibiotics and sometimes surgical intervention to drain abscesses or remove necrotic tissue.

Other conditions, such as histoplasmosis, cat-scratch disease, and scrofula, do not present with similar yellow granules in drainage, making actinomycosis the most likely diagnosis in this case.

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