Salmonella Septic Arthritis in Immunocompetent Young Children: A Rare Cause of Pediatric Monoarthritis

Septic arthritis is an orthopedic emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent irreversible joint damage. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common causative organism in pediatric septic arthritis. In contrast, Salmonella species are rare etiological agents, particularly in immunocompetent children without predisposing conditions. We report two cases of Salmonella-induced septic arthritis in healthy children. The first case involved an 11-month-old girl with acute right ankle septic arthritis. The second case involved a 15-month-old boy with subacute right hip septic arthritis complicated by proximal femoral osteomyelitis and subsequent hip subluxation. Both patients underwent surgical drainage and received prolonged intravenous ceftriaxone therapy, resulting in clinical and laboratory improvement. Although uncommon, Salmonella septic arthritis can occur in immunocompetent young children and may lead to significant morbidity, particularly with delayed presentation. Early recognition, prompt surgical intervention, and culture-guided antibiotic therapy are essential to optimize outcomes and minimize long-term complications.