Molecular diagnosis of campylobacter splenic abscess in an immunocompetent adolescent: A case report and literature review

Splenic abscess is a rare, life-threatening condition often resulting from hematogenous spread or contiguous infection. We report a 14-year-old immunocompetent male presenting with fever, diarrhea, and left upper quadrant pain. A CT scan revealed a 14-cm splenic abscess. Initial blood and aspirate cultures were negative, and empirical ceftriaxone and metronidazole yielded poor response. Multiplex PCR Gastrointestinal Panel and 16S rRNA sequencing identified <i>Campylobacter jejuni,</i> prompting targeted therapy with azithromycin and meropenem. Percutaneous drainage and antibiotics led to resolution. This case underscores the role of molecular diagnostics in culture-negative infections and highlights <i>Campylobacter</i> as a rare cause of splenic abscess in immunocompetent patients.