Bacillus typhi abdominalis, also known as Salmonella typhi or simply typhoid bacillus, is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium belonging to the Salmonella genus. It is the causative agent of typhoid fever, a systemic infectious disease primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water.
Typhoid bacillus is characterized by its ability to survive and multiply within the cells of the human intestinal wall. Upon entering the body, it reaches the small intestine where it actively invades the lymphoid tissue, causing inflammation and subsequent systemic infection.
Symptoms of infection may include sustained high fever, generalized weakness, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, headache, and sometimes a rose-colored rash known as "rose spots". If left untreated, complications such as intestinal perforation, hemorrhage, acute septicemia, and even death can occur.
Diagnosis of Bacillus typhi abdominalis is usually confirmed through laboratory tests, such as blood or stool cultures, which detect the presence of the bacterial pathogen.
Treatment typically involves the use of antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones or third-generation cephalosporins, to eliminate the bacteria. Vaccination is another preventive measure to reduce the risk of infection, especially in high-risk regions.
Prevention of Bacillus typhi abdominalis relies on practicing good hygiene, ensuring the consumption of clean and safe drinking water, and maintaining proper sanitation standards.
