Salmonella meningitis due to horizontal transmission in an extremely premature neonate: A case report

Salmonellosis is commonly associated with foodborne illnesses in adults. Meningitis, although rare, is a severe complication of a Salmonella infection, associated with high rates of mortality and significant neurological complications and sequelae. Premature infants are particularly susceptible for invasive infections due to their immature immune system. In this case report, we present an unusual case of Salmonella group B, serotype Typhimurium sepsis and meningitis in a 27-week premature neonate on the fourth day of life, resulting from horizontal transmission from mother to child, with fatal outcome. This case report also represents unique neuroimaging findings, revealing cerebral injury that arose in consequence of the infection. It highlights the importance of diagnostic evaluation of non-specific maternal symptoms, such as fever without apparent focus or abdominal pain, when a vulnerable preterm infant is involved. We suggest that in these cases, a more precise diagnosis through maternal cultures including blood, stool, and vaginal cultures may be warranted to take adequate measures minimizing horizontal transmission.