Salmonella typhi and pregnancy: a case report

Salmonella typhi may be a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in both the mother and fetus. Febrile illness during pregnancy, especially that associated with hemolysis, is associated with chorioamnionitis, pyelonephritis, or viral syndrome. As such, S. typhi should be considered when a patient presents with a fever and hemolysis. We present a case of S. typhi complicating pregnancy.

A primigravida at 26 weeks gestation presented with persistent spiking temperature and severe hemolysis. Her presenting signs and symptoms included fever, vomiting, cough, earache, jaundice, dark urine, and anemia. After 4 units of blood, her posttransfusion hematocrit was 29%. Hemolysis was evident on a peripheral blood smear. Total bilirubin was 2.5 mg/dl and direct bilirubin was 1.2 mg/dl. Gentamicin and clindamycin were administered empirically. Stool, blood, and urine cultures were obtained. Blood cultures were positive for S. typhi. Antibiotic coverage was changed to gentamicin and ceftriaxone. She defervesced on the 5th day and had no further problems. A healthy male infant was delivered vaginally at term.

Typhoid fever is a serious infection, and special concern arises when S. typhi complicates pregnancy. The diagnosis of S. typhi should be considered in a gravida presenting with fever with prompt institution of antibiotic therapy. Appropriate cultures are essential for confirming the diagnosis.