Mycotic aneurysm as a result of severe salmonella infection in the adult intensive care unit: two case studies

Abstract

Salmonella infections are relatively common and are generally associated with contaminated food products. Common clinical manifestations include fever, bacteremia, and chronic permanent asymptomatic colonization of the bowel (Schneider, Krülls-Münch, & Knörig, 2004). However, a small percentage of all patients with salmonella bacteremia may present with vascular infections in the form of an aneurysm (Cohen, O'Brien, Schoenbaum, and Medeiros, 1978; Shimoni et al., 1999). While it is extremely rare for those who work in the intensive care unit (ICU) to care for such patients, it is essential for health care professionals to recognize this disease in order to make a rapid diagnosis to prevent complications, such as mycotic aneurysm. This article is framed around two patients who presented to the same ICU following surgical intervention. The etiology of salmonella bacteremia, mycotic aneurysm, the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment are discussed.