Searching for Salmonella.

BACKGROUND

Salmonella species are responsible for two distinct syndromes. Nontyphoidal Salmonella are common causes of food borne gastroenteritis. Typhoidal Salmonella cause enteric fever; an important differential diagnosis in any traveller returning from a tropical country with fever.

OBJECTIVE

This article describes the spectrum of disease that occurs with Salmonellosis infections and particular subgroups of patients who are more susceptible to severe disease. An appreciation of this will allow the clinician to manage these infections appropriately.

DISCUSSION: Nontyphoidal Salmonellosis infections causing gastroenteritis are common in our community. Infection is caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, or occasionally by contact with an infected person. Most cases are self limiting and the focus of management is effective rehydration. Antibiotic therapy is seldom warranted but important exceptions exist including neonates, the immunocompromised, and in particular circumstances, the elderly. Enteric fever always warrants antibiotic treatment. Notification to the appropriate health authority assists with investigating possible outbreaks.