Splenic Infarction: An Unusual Complication of Salmonella Infection

TL;DR

A rare case of splenic infarction caused by Salmonella paratyphi A is reported, highlighting the importance of recognizing unusual complications of typhoid fever.

Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on splenic infarction as a complication of Salmonella infection.

Findings

Splenic infarction was diagnosed in a patient with Salmonella paratyphi A infection.

Common causes of splenic infarction were ruled out through diagnostic workup.

The case emphasizes the need for awareness of atypical abdominal complications in endemic regions.

Abstract

Splenic infarction is an uncommon diagnosis, often overlooked due to its non-specific clinical presentation. While a splenic abscess is common, infarction due to infective processes is rare. Among infections, Salmonella is infrequently implicated, and splenic infarct secondary to typhoid or paratyphoid fever is exceptionally rare. We report the case of a young adult man who presented with acute fever and pain in the abdomen and was subsequently diagnosed with splenic infarction. A meticulous diagnostic workup excluded common causes such as infective endocarditis, hematological malignancies, hypercoagulable states, and sickle cell disorder, ultimately identifying non-lactose fermenting colonies positive for Salmonella paratyphi A as the etiology. Recognition of such atypical abdominal complications of typhoid is essential in endemic areas to prevent missed diagnosis and optimize management.

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