Cardiac Complications of Salmonella enterica: A Narrative Review

Salmonella enterica (S. enterica) is an important pathogen responsible for bloodstream infections, particularly in developing nations. These infections often lead to bacteremia, with a few patients developing cardiac complications in high-risk populations. Myocarditis, a common manifestation, presents with fever, chest pain, and dyspnea and can lead to severe complications, such as cardiogenic shock. Salmonella endocarditis, although rare, predominantly affects the mitral valve and leads to critical complications, including valve perforation and dehiscence, with a high mortality rate. Patients with purulent pericarditis present more acutely with toxic features. Arrhythmias, notably third-degree atrioventricular block and ventricular fibrillation, are prevalent complications primarily due to myocarditis. Diagnostic methods range from isolating Salmonella from clinical samples to immunoblotting and polymerase chain reaction-based assays that target specific genes. Depending on severity, treatment includes supportive care or antibiotic therapy with fluoroquinolones in uncomplicated cases and cephalosporins in complicated cases. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management strategies are crucial for mitigating the morbidity and mortality associated with S. enterica infections.