Polyserositis due to Salmonellaenterica serovar Enteritidis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is a significant emerging pathogen, typically causing gastroenteritis.
• Non-typhoid Salmonella infections can present with diverse clinical manifestations beyond typical gastrointestinal symptoms.

Observation:

• A 60-year-old immunocompetent male in southern India presented with polyserositis, characterized by right-sided pleural effusion and loculated peritoneal fluid.
• The patient had no history of preceding gastroenteritis or local structural abnormalities, suggesting an unusual presentation of S. Enteritidis infection.
• Malnutrition and advanced age were considered potential predisposing factors for this severe manifestation.

Findings:

• S. Enteritidis was identified as the causative agent of polyserositis in this case.
• The patient was successfully treated with a 2-week course of intravenous ceftriaxone followed by oral ciprofloxacin.
• Therapeutic pleurocentesis and abdominal paracentesis were performed to manage the fluid collections.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for S. Enteritidis to cause severe, non-gastrointestinal manifestations like polyserositis, even in immunocompetent individuals.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy, alongside supportive procedures, are crucial for managing such rare presentations.
• The findings underscore the importance of considering atypical Salmonella infections in patients with unexplained polyserositis, particularly in endemic regions.