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Updated: Aug 4, 2026

High-throughput Assay to Phenotype Salmonella enterica Typhimurium Association, Invasion, and Replication in Macrophages
Published on: August 11, 2014
Effect of trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole on typhoid and salmonella carriers
Abstract:
Four chronic typhoid carriers from the Aberdeen typhoid outbreak of 1964 were treated with trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole. The male carrier remained clear of infection following treatment but the three female carriers, all with gall bladder abnormalities, remained excretors. A convalescent typhoid excretor also remained clear of infection after treatment as well as two other salmonella carriers, one of whom has been a chronic carrier for 24 years.
Insights
Trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole effectively cleared Salmonella Typhi infection in a male carrier and a convalescent excretor. However, female carriers with gallbladder issues persisted as excretors, indicating treatment limitations.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, poses a significant public health challenge.
- Chronic typhoid carriers are a reservoir for disease transmission.
- Gallbladder abnormalities are frequently associated with chronic Salmonella Typhi carriage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole in treating chronic typhoid carriers.
- To assess the impact of gallbladder abnormalities on treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Treatment of four chronic typhoid carriers with trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole.
- Monitoring of bacterial excretion post-treatment.
- Inclusion of a convalescent excretor and two other Salmonella carriers for comparison.
Main Results:
- The male chronic carrier was cleared of infection.
- Three female chronic carriers with gallbladder abnormalities remained excretors.
- A convalescent excretor and two other Salmonella carriers (one chronic for 24 years) were cleared of infection.
Conclusions:
- Trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole shows potential for treating typhoid carriers but may be less effective in individuals with gallbladder abnormalities.
- Gallbladder status is a critical factor influencing the success of antibiotic therapy for typhoid carriers.
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