Salmonellosis-Induced Pericarditis and Pericardial Effusion: A Case Report and Literature Review

TL;DR

A 69-year-old patient developed pericarditis and pericardial effusion caused by Salmonella, highlighting the need for early detection in immunocompromised individuals.

Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of non-typhoidal Salmonella causing pericarditis and emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis.

Findings

Salmonella groups C and D were identified in pericardial fluid and tissue.

The patient recovered after pericardiocentesis and antibiotic treatment.

Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for invasive Salmonella infections.

Abstract

While salmonellosis is commonly thought to predominantly impact the gastrointestinal system, bacteremia and localized extraintestinal infections such as meningitis, empyema, and pericarditis can develop, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Here, we present a case of a 69-year-old with multiple comorbidities, who presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and hemodynamics instability in the form of hypoxia and hypotension and was found to have moderate pericardial effusion without echocardiographic signs of tamponade. The ischemic workup was unrevealing, and further infectious workups, including pericardial tissue biopsy and pericardial fluid culture, showed growth in Salmonella groups C and D.

Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with Salmonella-induced pericarditis and pericardial effusion and discharged home on oral antibiotics following pericardiocentesis and hemodynamics stabilization. Invasive infections caused by non-typhoidal Salmonella are becoming more prevalent in immunocompromised individuals. Acute bacterial myopericarditis is uncommon in advanced nations, yet it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Therefore, a high index of suspicion, early detection, and aggressive invasive and non-invasive therapies would strongly be considered to achieve a desirable outcome and good prognosis.

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