An extremely rare case of upper thoracic salmonella infection

Abstract

Background: Vertebral osteomyelitis is rare. Finding the right etiological agent is important to administer antibiotic regimen accordingly. The occurrence of this disease in endemic countries raises the susceptibility of a more common infection such as tuberculosis and pyogenic bacteria. Salmonella spp. infection is also common in endemic countries; however, extra-intestinal manifestation is very rare. Methods: We present an extremely rare case of salmonella vertebral osteomyelitis (SVO) in the upper thoracic vertebrae of a 64-year-old patient with history of cardiac surgery and other pre-existing comorbidities. SVO was treated by antibiotics, surgical debridement and spinal stabilization. Results: Three weeks after surgery and intravenous antibiotics, the patient recovered and was discharged without fever and back pain, with excellent motoric improvement. Conclusion: Salmonella infection must be considered to be one of possible etiological agents in patients with suggestive spondylitis in emerging countries, especially in those with comorbidities.