Clinical Characteristics and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of <i>Salmonella typhimurium</i> Enteritis in 81 Hospitalized Children: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a major cause of bacterial enteritis in children globally, particularly affecting children in developing regions. Understanding its local epidemiological characteristics and resistance patterns is essential for guiding effective clinical management and public health strategies. Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology, clinical features, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of S. enterica serovar Typhimurium infections in the pediatric population to inform more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 81 hospitalized pediatric patients diagnosed with S. typhimurium enteritis at the First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, China, from October 2019 to October 2024. Diagnosis was confirmed through bacteriological analysis of stool samples. Demographic, clinical, and microbiological data were collected and analyzed. Results: Among the 81 confirmed cases, we observed distinct seasonal variation with peak incidence in summer and autumn (June - October). The majority (70.37%) of affected children were under 2 years of age. The predominant clinical manifestations included fever (97.53%) and diarrhea (100%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed concerning resistance patterns: The highest resistance rates were observed against amikacin (90.91%) and cefuroxime (97.18%), with intermediate resistance (approximately 50%) to ceftriaxone. Notably, piperacillin-tazobactam and cefoperazone sodium maintained relatively low resistance rates (17.28% and 14.81%, respectively). Conclusions: In the Gannan region of China, S. typhimurium enteritis is a significant cause of illness among young children and is associated with notable levels of antimicrobial resistance. Strengthened surveillance and more judicious use of antibiotics are essential to improving clinical outcomes and controlling resistance development.