[Non typhoidal Salmonella infections: a clinical study of 491 cases (author's transl)].

491 cases of non typhoidal salmonella infections were studied in the Rouen Hospital University Centre. Affected patients are mainly children who usually present mild febrile gastroenteritis. Severe forms with septicemia, enteric fever, or focal manifestations, usually occur in adults. In nearly half the cases an underlying disease or another predisposing condition was found. In these cases, the mortality rate was increased. Antibiotic therapy prolonged post-convalescent excretion of salmonellae. Adequate diet and hygiene are sufficient in mild forms. Antibiotics should be used only in acute salmonella infections.