# An Atypical Pathogen at an Atypical Location: A Rare Case of Salmonella-Associated Submandibular Abscess

## TL;DR

A rare case of a Salmonella infection causing a submandibular abscess in an immunocompromised diabetic patient is presented, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and targeted treatment.

## Contribution

This paper reports a unique case of Salmonella Paratyphi B causing a submandibular abscess in an immunocompromised individual.

## Key findings

- Salmonella Paratyphi B was identified as the causative agent of a submandibular abscess in a 52-year-old man.
- The case underscores the importance of targeted antibiotic therapy based on culture and sensitivity analysis.
- Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are critical for treating rare Salmonella manifestations.

## Abstract

Salmonella infections commonly cause gastroenteritis and enteric fever but can also result in extraintestinal infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Although rare, Salmonella infection in the head and neck region was found to be more common in diabetics and patients with malignancy. We present a unique case of a 52-year-old immunocompromised man with uncontrolled diabetes who developed a submandibular abscess due to Salmonella Paratyphi B. The patient initially presented with pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing, which worsened over a week. Diagnostic imaging revealed a well-defined abscess with lymphadenopathy. Management included incision and drainage, followed by identification of Salmonella Paratyphi B and targeted antibiotic therapy based on culture and sensitivity analysis. This case highlights the importance of early recognition, appropriate diagnostic imaging, and targeted antimicrobial therapy in managing uncommon manifestations of Salmonella infection in the head and neck. Continued vigilance and multidisciplinary management are essential for favorable patient outcomes in such cases.