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Case report: Uncommon presentation of Salmonella Dublin infection as a large paravertebral abscess
Kang An1, Zengxiang Wu1, Cejun Zhong2
1General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
Background:
Salmonella Dublin is a zoonotic pathogen that is associated with invasive infections and high morbidity and mortality rates. Here we present the case of a 78-year-old man with a rare manifestation of a paravertebral abscess in the thoracolumbar spine caused by Salmonella Dublin.
Case Presentation:
The patient had a history of spinal tuberculosis and poorly controlled diabetes. The abscess was successfully managed by drainage, and a 12-week course of moxifloxacin resulted in complete recovery. Salmonella Dublin was identified using culture-based serotyping. The patient resided in an environment where cattle farming is common; he consumed raw beef and unpasteurized milk, suggesting a potential source of infection.
Discussion:
Increasing the awareness of Salmonella Dublin as a potential cause of spinal abscesses is important, particularly in patients with structural spinal abnormalities. The timely initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy based on susceptibility testing is recommended. This case highlights the pathogenic potential of Salmonella Dublin and emphasizes the importance of effectively managing invasive Salmonella infections.
Insights
This case report details a rare spinal abscess caused by Salmonella Dublin in an elderly man. Prompt treatment with drainage and antibiotics led to full recovery, highlighting Salmonella Dublin
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Salmonella Dublin is a zoonotic pathogen linked to severe invasive infections.
- Spinal abscesses are rare but serious manifestations of Salmonella infections.
Observation:
- A 78-year-old male with a history of spinal tuberculosis and diabetes developed a paravertebral abscess.
- The patient had potential exposure to Salmonella Dublin through consumption of raw beef and unpasteurized milk in a cattle farming area.
Findings:
- Salmonella Dublin was identified as the causative agent of the thoracolumbar paravertebral abscess.
- The patient recovered completely after surgical drainage and a 12-week course of moxifloxacin.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Salmonella Dublin in spinal abscesses, especially in patients with pre-existing spinal conditions.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and appropriate antimicrobial therapy guided by susceptibility testing for invasive Salmonella infections.
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