G-1159

Investigation of Microbial Infections (Salmonella, Giardia, and Fasciola) in Excised Gallbladders of Operated Patients at Yasuj Shahid Jalil Hospital in 2024: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

 Hadi Ebrahimi ¹ ℗, Hossein Jalali Shirazi ¹, Mohammad Hamidi ¹, Farzad Mazloomirad ², Farzin Hadinia ², Paria Zanganeh ², Abdolali Moshfe ³ ©, Seyed Sajjad Khoramrooz ³, Reza Hosseinpour ⁴   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Cholecystitis, an inflammatory condition of the gallbladder, is a prevalent disease affecting numerous individuals annually. It may occur in the presence or absence of gallstones, with infectious and microbial agents playing a significant role in its etiology. These agents can precipitate acute or chronic inflammation, impair gallbladder function, establish chronic carrier states, and lead to severe complications such as peritonitis, cholangitis, and gallbladder perforation. Cholecystitis may be associated with infections such as typhoid fever (caused by Salmonella), giardiasis, and fascioliasis, which are particularly prevalent in developing countries, especially in regions with suboptimal sanitation. Given the prevalence of these infections in certain areas of Iran and their profound impact on the biliary system, this study aims to investigate the role of three microorganisms—Salmonella, Giardia, and Fasciola—in the pathogenesis of cholecystitis, while analyzing the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with these conditions. Methods and Materials: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 93 gallbladder specimens obtained from patients at Shahid Jalil Hospital in Yasuj in 2024. Demographic data, including age, sex, place of residence, medical history, surgical history, duration of hospitalization, and laboratory findings, were extracted from patient records and analyzed. The samples were examined for the presence of Salmonella, Giardia, and Fasciola in the laboratory. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23 and appropriate statistical methods. For Salmonella detection, Selenite F, MacConkey, and XLD culture media were utilized. For Giardia and Fasciola, macroscopic and microscopic laboratory techniques, including direct smear preparation and concentration methods, were employed. Results: A study of 93 samples revealed that only one case, identified through bile fluid culture, tested positive for Salmonella, with no samples showing contamination by Giardia or Fasciola. The mean age of the participants was 50.47 ± 15.96 years, ranging from 15 to 85 years. Of the participants, 71% resided in Boyer-Ahmad County, while no cases were reported from Bahmaei County. The sole infected sample was from a 26-year-old male resident of Boyer-Ahmad County, who presented with cholecystitis symptoms at Shahid Jalil Hospital. Conclusion and Discussion: Based on the findings, the Salmonella infection rate in this study aligns with other similar studies. This study indicates that cholecystitis may occasionally arise secondary to infection. In selected cases, non-surgical management may be a viable treatment option based on the discretion of the surgical team.

Keywords: Gallbladder, Salmonella, Giardia, Fasciola, Cholecystitis