Salmonellainfection can cause appendicitis by direct invasion of the appendix, or can mimic appendicitis by causing mild inflammation of the appendix, ileum, or lymph nodes. Clinical presentation and radiologic and laboratory evaluation may not distinguish the extent of underlying pathology. This case of a child with an atypical presentation ofSalmonellawho underwent diagnostic laparotomy illustrates the overlap of enteric infections and acute appendicitis. A literature review confirms the variety of clinical scenarios of patients with suspected appendicitis andSalmonella-positive cultures. We con-clude that enteric infection should be considered in children with atypical presentations of appendicitis, and that the knowledge thatSalmonellacan progress to appendicitis should guide management if signs and symptoms of appendicitis develop.
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