Original paper
Salmonella infection in children – own experiences

Clinical manifestation of Salmonella infection comprise acute gastroenteritis or chronic dyspeptic symptoms. The aim of the study was the analysis of the clinical manifestation of Salmonella infection in subdivided groups of children. Material and methods: 36 children (age 1.5 months – 17 years; mean 7.91±5.92 yr), in whom basing on bacteriological examinations of faeces samples and/or serological examinations (Widal test) Salmonella infection was diagnosed, were qualified for retrospective analysis. Children were divided into two groups: DM (young children – under 4 years) – 10 children and DS (older children – 4-18 years) – 26 children. Results: Microbiological examination of faeces samples was positive in 13 patients (DM – 8/10, DS – 5/20). Serological test was positive in 26 subjects (DM – 3/8, DS – 23/25). In the group of young children the main symptoms were: acute diarrhoea (5/10), patological content in stool (6/10), emesis (6/10), fever (6/10). In group of older children abdominal pain of 3 months duration (14/26) and diarrhoea of over 14 days duration (9/26) were the most common complaints. The mean duration of abdominal pain was longer in DS group than in DM (93.91±93.66 days vs 15.43±30.33 days; p<0.001). None of the infants was breast fed. Conclusions: 1. In children under 4 years of age the clinical manifestation of Salmonella infection is typical and bacteriological examination of faeces samples is the useful diagnostic method. 2. In children above 3 years of age Salmonella infection can be the cause of chronic dyspeptic symptoms and serology is the helpful method in differential diagnostics.