Focal intracranial infections due to Salmonella are rare. So far, around 80 cases have been reported in the world literature. The authors present their experience of 6 cases of intracranial Salmonella infections, mainly subdural empyema in 5 and effusion in 1. In 1 case, subdural empyema was bilateral, and in another case, there was an associated brain abscess. Positive blood cultures and positive Widal tests were noticed in 2 patients each. Early diagnosis and prompt evacuation of subdural collections and brain abscess and antibiotic therapy lead to satisfactory results. This study suggests that a high index of suspicion, early diagnosis and quick evacuation lead to success; this point is highlighted with the help of a review of the literature.

Keywords:
Salmonella meningitis, Subdural empyema, Clinical presentation, Antibiotic treatment
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© 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel
2002
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