Hepatic abscess caused by Salmonella typhi

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus is a common comorbidity associated with various infections.
• Recurrent fever and abdominal pain can indicate intra-abdominal pathology, including liver abscesses.
• Salmonella Typhi is an important cause of enteric fever and can lead to extra-intestinal infections.

Observation:

• A 64-year-old male with diabetes presented with recurrent fever and abdominal pain.
• Abdominal ultrasonography identified a liver abscess in the right lobe and a distended gallbladder with gallstones.
• Liver aspirate culture confirmed the presence of Salmonella Typhi.

Findings:

• The patient's clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with a hepatic abscess.
• Cholelithiasis (gallstones) was observed in the gallbladder.
• Salmonella Typhi was identified as the causative agent of the liver abscess.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential link between cholelithiasis and Salmonella-induced hepatic abscesses in diabetic patients.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of Salmonella carriers with gallstones are crucial to prevent complications like liver abscesses.
• Understanding predisposing factors can improve the management of Salmonella infections and their complications.