Non-typhoid Salmonella spondylodiscitis – An unusual organism in the back

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice

Abstract

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS), a Gram-negative bacillus, is a common etiological of gastroenteritis but is not associated with spondylodiscitis. This is a case report depicting an uncommon presentation of spondylodiscitis in an elderly patient, a fish consumer with no preceding gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms or fever contributing new insights into spinal infections and microbiology. A 62-year-old female patient who was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with progressive mid-back pain for two months. She had no history of fever, recent trauma, or any GI symptoms. The patient is a regular consumer of fish, a potential source of NTS infection. Physical examination revealed tenderness over the T0-T10 region with restricted spinal movements, and inflammatory markers were elevated. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed T0-T10 vertebral collapse with end plate destruction with fluid collections leading us to a diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. A percutaneous biopsy and laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. The patient was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone followed by ciprofloxacin. The case highlights the importance of considering NTS as a potential pathogen in cases of spondylodiscitis, even without preceding GI symptoms, especially when the patient is a regular consumer of fish. It also emphasizes the need for early laboratory workup, antibiotic therapy, and comprehensive imaging.

First Page

446

Last Page

448

DOI

10.25259/JNRP_59_2025

Publication Date

7-1-2025

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