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Unusual meningitis caused by non-typhoid Salmonella in an Italian infant: a case report
Monica Ficara1, Valentina Cenciarelli, Lisa Montanari
1Post-graduate School of Pediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy. iughetti.lorenzo@unimore.it.
Background:
Non-typhoid Salmonella (NTS) is an important cause of bacterial meningitis in newborn and infants in developing countries, but rarely in industrialized ones. We describe an unusual presentation of bacterial meningitis in an infant, focusing on his diagnostic and therapeutic management.
Case Report:
An Italian two-month old male presented high fever and diarrhea with blood, associated with irritability. Inflammatory markers were high, cerebrospinal fluid analysis was compatible with bacterial meningitides but microbiological investigations were negative. Salmonella enteritidis was isolated from blood. Cerebral ultrasound and MRI showed periencephalic collection of purulent material. Specific antibiotic therapy with cefotaxime was initiated with improvement of clinical conditions and blood tests. Brain MRI follow up improved progressively.
Conclusions:
Most of pediatric patients with NTS infection develop self-limited gastroenteritis, but in 3-8% of the cases complications such as bacteremia and meningitis may occur, especially in weak patients. Cerebral imaging can be useful to identify neurological findings. Although there is no standardized treatment for this condition, specific antibiotic therapy for at least four weeks is recommended. Neuroimaging follow up is required due to high risk of relapse.
Insights
Non-typhoid Salmonella (NTS) meningitis is rare in infants but can cause serious complications. Early diagnosis and specific antibiotic treatment are crucial for recovery and preventing relapse.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Non-typhoid Salmonella (NTS) is a significant cause of bacterial meningitis in infants, particularly in developing nations.
- While uncommon in industrialized countries, NTS meningitis requires prompt recognition and management.
- This case highlights an unusual presentation and the diagnostic/therapeutic approach in an infant.
Observation:
- A two-month-old infant presented with fever, bloody diarrhea, and irritability.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis suggested bacterial meningitis, but initial cultures were negative.
- Blood cultures identified Salmonella enteritidis; cerebral imaging revealed purulent material.
Findings:
- Salmonella enteritidis bacteremia complicated by meningitis in an infant.
- Cerebral ultrasound and MRI were vital in diagnosing the extent of the infection.
- Specific antibiotic therapy (cefotaxime) led to clinical improvement and favorable MRI follow-up.
Implications:
- NTS infections can lead to severe complications like meningitis in vulnerable infants.
- Prompt microbiological investigation and neuroimaging are essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Extended antibiotic therapy (≥4 weeks) and neuroimaging follow-up are recommended due to relapse risk.
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