Related Experiment Videos
[Perforation of the small bowel, bleeding and ARDS as complications of typhoid]
I Y Shemesh1, J Yahel, A Bourvin
1ICU, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon.
Abstract:
Ileal complications, including perforation and bleeding, are uncommon in the western world today. We report a 26-year-old man with typhoid fever who developed hypoxemia, pleural effusion, ileal perforation and ileal bleeding. He was treated with intravenous chloramphenicol and underwent 2 operations. The ileal complications developed during the third week of illness. To our knowledge this is the first such report in the Hebrew literature.
Insights
Typhoid fever can cause rare but severe ileal complications like perforation and bleeding, even in Western countries. This case highlights the importance of recognizing these serious issues in patients with typhoid.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Ileal complications, such as perforation and bleeding, are infrequent in contemporary Western medicine.
- Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, remains a significant global health concern.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old male presented with symptoms of typhoid fever.
- The patient developed hypoxemia, pleural effusion, and subsequent ileal perforation and bleeding.
- These ileal complications manifested during the third week of his illness.
Findings:
- Intravenous chloramphenicol treatment was administered.
- Two surgical interventions were required to manage the ileal complications.
- The case represents a rare presentation of typhoid fever with severe gastrointestinal sequelae.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe, uncommon complications of typhoid fever.
- Early recognition and management are crucial for patients presenting with typhoid fever and gastrointestinal distress.
- Highlights the need for continued vigilance regarding typhoid fever complications in diverse clinical settings.