Long-term post-Salmonella reactive arthritis due to Salmonella Blockley

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Rheumatology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Salmonella Blockley is a serovar commonly found in Southeast Asia.
• Reactive arthritis can develop following Salmonella infections.
• Information on reactive arthritis caused by less common Salmonella serovars is limited.

Observation:

• A patient working in Cyprus developed Salmonella Blockley food poisoning in August 1994.
• Following resolution of diarrhea, the patient experienced lower limb joint pain diagnosed as acute salmonella reactive arthritis.
• Symptoms persisted for over five years, with initial deterioration and partial improvement over two years.

Findings:

• This case represents an early report of Salmonella Blockley infection in Cyprus, predating other documented cases by four years.
• The probable source of infection was a chicken meal, linking Salmonella Blockley to poultry.
• The case demonstrates the geographical emergence of Salmonella Blockley outside its endemic region.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing Salmonella Blockley as a potential cause of reactive arthritis.
• Further research is needed to understand the incidence and duration of reactive arthritis associated with less common Salmonella serovars.
• Public health surveillance should consider the expanding geographical distribution of Salmonella serovars and their associated clinical manifestations.