A Rare Case of Retropharyngeal Abscess by Salmonella Typhimurium in Central India

Abstract

Retropharyngeal abscess (RPA) is an infection in the retropharyngeal space of neck. It is rare in adults and can occur as a result of local trauma, foreign body ingestion, or instrumental procedures. Abscesses in this space can be caused by aerobic, anaerobic, or Gram-negative organisms. Salmonella neck infections represent an uncommon cause of focal salmonellosis. It may develop in uncontrolled diabetic or immunocompromised, patients without any proceeding intestinal manifestation of the disease. While the incidence of non-typhoidal salmonellosis (NTS) is estimated at over two million cases annually, extra intestinal manifestation account in less than 1 % of these cases. Here, we report a case of RPA due to Salmonella enterica subp. enterica serovar Typhimurium in a 50-year-old female from Central India. IV antibiotics should be considered along with surgical drainage and treatment of the comorbidity. Early diagnosis and intervention are imperative to avoid mortality.