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Published on: September 22, 2019
Intramesenteric abscess caused by non-typhoidal Salmonella
Connie Au1, Shannon Skochko2, Anthony Hung Chau2,3
1University of California Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a common cause of gastroenteritis in humans and animals, but intra-abdominal abscesses or organ space surgical site infection (SSI) secondary to this organism has been rarely reported, making diagnosis and management difficult. Our case of intra-mesenteric abscess caused by NTS species is the only case reported in the literature. Immunocompromising conditions such as diabetes and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are important risk factors for invasive nontyphoidal Salmonella. Most patients are treated initially with intravenous antibiotics. Treatment often requires operative drainage by laparoscopy or laparotomy alone, although percutaneous drainage has been performed more frequently in recent years. Early clinical signs and radiographic features of intra-abdominal abscess may be diagnostically challenging. It is important for clinicians to have high index of suspicion based on history and symptomatology as prompt treatment is essential to prevent further morbidity and mortality.
Insights
Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) rarely causes intra-abdominal abscesses. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and importance of prompt treatment for invasive NTS infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Infections
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) commonly causes gastroenteritis.
- Intra-abdominal abscesses or surgical site infections (SSIs) due to NTS are rare, complicating diagnosis and management.
- Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., with diabetes or HIV) are at higher risk for invasive NTS.
Observation:
- This report details a unique case of an intra-mesenteric abscess caused by NTS species.
- Early clinical signs and radiographic findings of intra-abdominal abscesses can be challenging to interpret.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe outcomes.
Findings:
- NTS is an uncommon cause of intra-abdominal abscesses.
- Treatment typically involves intravenous antibiotics and operative or percutaneous drainage.
- High clinical suspicion is necessary for timely intervention.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of NTS infections.
- Highlights the need for considering NTS in intra-abdominal infections, particularly in at-risk populations.
- Emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management to reduce morbidity and mortality.
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